Budget Cuts to Science Agencies Short-sighted and Dangerous

WASHINGTON, March 16, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- This statement is attributable to Christine McEntee, Executive Director and CEO of the American Geophysical Union (AGU):

"President Trump's proposed budget, if enacted, would be a step backward for scientific progress, jeopardize the U.S.'s role as a leader in innovation, and harm the American public. The cuts to federal agencies such as DOE, EPA, NOAA, NSF, USGS, and programs within NASA, will put the safety and wellbeing of millions of families and companies at risk. These agencies provide research and data that are critical in informing and shaping decisions that protect public health and safety, support national security, and facilitate economic stability and job growth in the US.

We are disheartened and significantly concerned by the president's budget proposal, which clearly devalues science and research.

Investment in Earth and space science has given us better satellite data for our military, more accurate forecasting that protects the public from natural hazards, and improved our understanding of the effects of a changing climate on agricultural, ecosystems, and human health. Without the critical data and information this research provides, who will farmers turn to when they need help managing their crops? Who will the Pentagon turn to when they need information to support effective troop movements? Who will families turn to when a hurricane or tornado threatens their lives and livelihoods?

The proposed cuts will not only be debilitating to public-serving federally funded science programs, but will have wide-reaching effects on our ability to attract and retain the best scientific minds, maintain and improve our infrastructure, and protect the U.S. from current and future hazards.

The Administration says it wants to drive economic and societal growth, but its proposed cuts to funding for federal science agencies is in direct conflict with that goal. If we want to create an environment where our economy and our society can thrive, a strong and stable investment in science is essential."

About American Geophysical Union

The American Geophysical Union is dedicated to advancing the Earth and space sciences for the benefit of humanity through its scholarly publications, conferences, and outreach programs. AGU is a not-for-profit, professional, scientific organization representing 60,000 members in 137 countries. Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and our other social media channels.

SOURCE American Geophysical Union

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