AAPG joined 73 other scientific associations in sending letters to senators that led an unsuccessful effort to modify the 2012 rules restricting government scientists’ and engineers’ participation in scientific and technical conferences. Reduced government participation reduces communication of ideas and other interaction between academic, industrial and government communities to the detriment of American innovation.
The first letter went to Senators Thad Cochran, Chairman, and Barbara Mikulski, Vice Chairwoman, of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
The second letter went to Senators Brian Schatz and Chris Coons, who sponsored the unsuccessful legislation–an amendment to the FY 2016 Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act.
It is hoped that the letters will encourage additional action as the appropriations process continues this fall.