Over at the Nature News blog, there's a great summary of the ways that last night's State of the Union address by President Obama tackled issues near to scientists' hearts. Several of these points are particularly relevant for medical researchers. For instance, the post says:
- Obama urged lawmakers not to “gut” US investments in basic research, arguing among other things that “the discoveries taking place in our federally-financed labs and universities could lead to new treatments that kill cancer cells but leave healthy ones untouched” and create lightweight vests that protect police and soldiers from “any bullet.”
- Calling on Congress to “stop expelling responsible young people who want to staff our labs,” the president argued that a path to citizenship should be created for foreign students who come here to study subjects like business, science and engineering. “Send me a law that gives them the chance to earn their citizenship. I will sign it right away.”
The entire post - which also addresses such areas of science as green technology and high-tech manufacturing - is a worthwhile read. A video of the president's speech is available here in case you missed it.
Previously: Obama reaffirms commitment to health reform – but does Congress care?
Photo by The White House
