Following the introduction of the “Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act” to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), a leading think tank for science and technology policy, issued a statement of support from associate director of trade policy, Nigel Cory.
“On behalf of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), we are writing to express our support for the ‘Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act,’ which would create a Foundation for Standards and Metrology in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). A foundation would help NIST do even more to ensure the United States is at the forefront of global conversations on safe, responsible, and innovative artificial intelligence (AI) and other new and emerging technologies.”
Cory emphasized that technical standards are an increasingly significant aspect of geotech competition among countries such as the United States, China, and members of the European Union. He highlighted NIST’s pivotal role in supporting U.S. industry engagement in developing these standards. “Alongside the AI Safety Institute and NIST’s AI Risk Management Framework,” Cory noted, “the Foundation would become another tool the United States could use in this global competition to develop detailed, technical, and appropriately targeted mechanisms and standards for the governance of new technologies.”
The proposed foundation aims to complement NIST’s ongoing work with U.S. stakeholders by attracting funding to facilitate broader participation in international metrology discussions. Cory stated that this initiative is particularly beneficial given its potential to support experts from small firms, academia, among others. However, he stressed that effective support hinges on ensuring only qualified experts engage in these discussions.
Despite recognizing the potential benefits of external funding through grants managed by this new foundation, Cory underscored that it should not replace congressional appropriations needed by NIST. He pointed out that NIST’s FY 2024 funding decreased by 8 percent from the previous year.
The legislation also emphasizes good governance practices critical for success. It outlines a mission including commercialization of federally funded research, education outreach efforts, direct support for NIST activities related to standards development—all managed with appropriate administrative arrangements modeled after successful government foundations like those associated with National Health Institutes.
“The Foundation will help NIST...support the open, voluntary...standards system that translates U.S. technological innovation into standards power,” Cory stated. The act positions America strategically against competitors who may manipulate standard-setting processes unfavorably towards U.S firms.
Finally addressing broader challenges posed by emerging technologies—such as computing resource access or workforce development—Cory affirmed that while additional measures are necessary beyond what this act covers; it nonetheless represents an essential step forward complementing existing initiatives aimed at bolstering national economic security through innovation-driven competitiveness supported via international standards systems.
For further information regarding ITIF's position or inquiries about specific details within their statement contact Austin Slater: [email protected]
