What This Bill Does
This resolution expresses support for designating the third Friday of every March as "National FIRST Robotics Day." The bill recognizes robotics as an important way to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts to young people. It encourages schools and the federal government to support robotics education programs.
Who It Affects
States and local school districts, schools and educators, the National Science Foundation, and students interested in robotics and STEM fields.
Key Provisions
• The House of Representatives supports the designation of "National FIRST Robotics Day" and its celebration across the United States (Resolution section 1)
• The House recognizes the importance of the National Science Foundation's math and science education programs (Resolution section 2)
• States and local educational agencies are encouraged to fund afterschool robotics programs using funds made available by title IV, part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (Resolution section 3)
• Schools and educators are encouraged to observe the day with activities that teach students about robotics and engage them in the study of mathematics and science (Resolution section 4)
What Changes
If passed, this resolution would officially designate the third Friday of every March as "National FIRST Robotics Day" in recognition of robotics education's role in developing the American workforce.
Important Definitions
FIRST means "For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology."
IV
118TH CONGRESS
1ST SESSION
H. RES. 183
Expressing support for designation of the third Friday of every March,
as ‘‘National FIRST Robotics Day’’.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
FEBRUARY 28, 2023
Mr. FOSTER (for himself, Mr. COHEN, Mr. GOTTHEIMER, Mr. CASTEN, and
Ms. UNDERWOOD) submitted the following resolution; which was referred
to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to
the Committee on Education and the Workforce, for a period to be subse-
quently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such
provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned
RESOLUTION
Expressing support for designation of the third Friday of
every March, as ‘‘National FIRST Robotics Day’’.
Whereas FIRST is For the Inspiration and Recognition of
Science and Technology;
Whereas robotics is rapidly proving to be one of the most ef-
fective, compelling, and engaging means for teaching and
reinforcing fundamental science, technology, engineering,
and mathematics (STEM) concepts as well as inspiring
the Nation’s youth to pursue STEM-related careers,
thereby helping to create a highly skilled, 21st-century
American workforce;
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•HRES 183 IH
Whereas there is a strong need to recognize America’s leader-
ship in robotics technology, educate the public on robotics
technology’s broad potential, growing importance, and fu-
ture impact on American society, underscore the need for
increased investment in robotics technology research and
development, and inspire the Nation’s youth to pursue
careers in robotics and other STEM-related fields;
Whereas the United States has the largest number of aca-
demic and research organizations with dedicated pro-
grams focused on the advancement of robotics tech-
nology;
Whereas aptitude in mathematics, science, and engineering is
essential for a knowledge-based society;
Whereas the Federal Government must continue to make
deep, hands-on STEM experiences a true priority in
school districts around the country by unlocking in-
creased funding for programming that—
(1) builds strong foundations for STEM literacy;
(2) increases diversity, equity, and inclusion in
STEM; and
(3) prepares the STEM workforce for the future;
Whereas not all STEM jobs of the 21st century require a tra-
ditional 4-year degree, so greater pathways toward
STEM education must be encouraged;
Whereas robotics has matured into an all-encompassing and
enabling technology that, as a pillar of 21st-century
American innovation, is positioned to fuel a broad array
of next generation products and applications, and trans-
form our society;
Whereas the emerging market for robotics and related tech-
nology in various sectors, including health care, national
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•HRES 183 IH
defense, homeland security, energy, manufacturing, logis-
tics, transportation, agriculture, education, consumer
goods, and others, is expected to grow at a compound an-
nual growth rate of nearly 20 percent over the next few
years to become a worldwide $27,000,000,000 industry;
and
Whereas robotics is a critical technology capable in the near
term of contributing to the economic recovery by creating
new jobs, increasing productivity, improving quality, and
increasing worker safety: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
1
(1) supports the designation of a ‘‘National
2
FIRST Robotics Day’’ and its celebration around
3
the United States;
4
(2) recognizes the continuing importance of the
5
National Science Foundation’s math and science
6
education programs;
7
(3) encourages States and local educational
8
agencies to fund afterschool robotics programs using
9
funds made available by title IV, part A of the Every
10
Student Succeeds Act; and
11
(4) encourages schools and educators to observe
12
the day with appropriate activities that teach stu-
13
dents about robotics and engage them about the
14
study of mathematics and science.
15
Æ
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