SSTI's Latest Issue Brief: Science, Technology and the Governors

Science and technology issues are well positioned on the radar screen of many governors, based on SSTI review of more than 50 gubernatorial addresses. In SSTI's latest issue brief, Science, Technology and the Governors: Excerpts from the 2000 Gubernatorial Addresses, SSTI compiles 117 excerpts across a range of S&T concerns: new initiatives, biotechnology, university research capacity, the New Economy, e-commerce, technology-related tax credits, seed and venture capital, information technology and workforce development.

Review of the governors’ addresses emphasizes again that state support for science and technology transcends political parties, demographics, and economic conditions. Quotes in the issue brief come from 38 governors. The 2000 review indicates a large increase in the number of governors talking about biotechnology (13 in 2000 versus 5 in 1999), a reflection of some states’ use of tobacco settlement funds for biotechnology research. There was a significant decline in the number of governors discussing access to higher education (7 in 2000 versus 20 in 1999); this may be due to action in 1999 establishing scholarship and forgivable loan programs.

SSTI sponsor organizations will be receiving their complimentary copies of Science, Technology and the Governors, next week. Digest subscribers and the general public may order individual copies of the 40-page issue brief for $15.00 (US). The price is $12.00 per unit for orders of five or more copies.