Dozens of associations and professional groups are among the more than 250 organizations that have signed a letter urging lawmakers to take actions to improve U.S. scientific and technological innovation, including an end to "deep cuts" in federal research budgets.

The letter, titled "Innovation: An American Imperative," cites an American Academy of Arts and Sciences report finding a gap between what the U.S. is investing and what is needed for the country to continue to be competitive in innovation and job creation. Among the signatories is the Semiconductor Industry Association, which noted the U.S. is in a global race to produce the best and brightest minds.

"The policies outlined in the ‘Innovation Imperative' will help the United States rise to this challenge, win the race, and remain at the forefront of innovation," SIA CEO John Neuffer said.

The documents calls on policymakers to do the following:

• End sequestration's deep cuts to federal investments in research and development
• Make permanent a strengthened federal R&D tax credit
• Improve student achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
• Reform U.S. visa policy
• Streamline or eliminate costly and inefficient regulations
• Reaffirm merit-based peer review
• Stimulate further improvements in advanced manufacturing

Other signatories include the American Chemical Society, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, American Veterinary Medical Association, Biotechnology Industry Organization and Computing Research Association. http://bit.ly/1K8tvXC

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