Supporting the goals and ideals of Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 349
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Education
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-04-24: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
- Last Updated
- 2025-07-21T19:44:15Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This resolution (H. Res. 349) expresses the U.S. House of Representatives' support for the goals and ideals of Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month, observed each April. It aims to raise public awareness of the importance of mathematics and statistics in innovation, education, and solving societal challenges, while promoting diversity in these fields.
Key Provisions
The resolution includes a series of "Whereas" clauses outlining background and rationale, followed by three main resolved points:
- Supports efforts to increase visibility of mathematics and statistics as fields of study and highlight the benefits of education in these areas.
- Recognizes that mathematics and statistics form the foundation of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines, which are essential to the U.S. education system and economic growth.
- Celebrates the everyday role of mathematics and statistics in American life, including technology, cybersecurity, news, games, literature, music, and education.
It references the month's history (starting in 1986 as Mathematics Awareness Week under President Reagan), ongoing research applications in fields like medicine and AI, the need for diverse participation (noting low representation of women and certain racial/ethnic groups in PhD recipients), and nationwide activities such as workshops and lectures.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, not a law or bill that amends statutes. It introduces no changes to existing legal frameworks but reaffirms and builds on prior presidential proclamations designating April for this awareness month.
Potential Impacts
- On citizens: Encourages greater public engagement, especially among students, parents, and educators, through hands-on activities that could inspire interest in STEM careers and address underrepresentation of women and minorities, potentially leading to a more diverse workforce.
- On government agencies: Provides symbolic congressional endorsement, which may influence federal education and science agencies (e.g., National Science Foundation) to promote related programs, though it imposes no mandates.
- On international relations: Indirectly supports U.S. global leadership in mathematics and statistics by emphasizing national security and economic interests, potentially aiding competitiveness in fields like cybersecurity and biotechnology.
No direct fiscal or regulatory impacts, as it is declarative rather than prescriptive.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Students and educators: Targeted through awareness activities to foster early interest and talent development in quantitative skills.
- Underrepresented groups: Women, Black or African Americans, American Indians or Alaska Natives, and Hispanics or Latinos, highlighted for low PhD representation (e.g., 29% women, 1.2% Black/African American in 2022 data) to promote inclusion.
- STEM professionals and researchers: Benefits from recognition of math/stats as drivers of innovation in health, defense, energy, and other sectors.
- General public and institutions: Universities, student groups, and associations organizing events; broader society gains from celebrated contributions to daily life and global problem-solving.
- Government and economy: Congress, federal agencies, and businesses reliant on STEM for prosperity and security.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: None, as resolutions like this are not enforceable and do not create rights or obligations; they serve as expressions of congressional sentiment.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to recognize observances under Article I, without infringing on free speech or other rights.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support (introduced by representatives from both parties) for STEM education and diversity initiatives, potentially signaling priorities for future funding or policy in science and workforce development. It underscores efforts to maintain U.S. preeminence amid global competition, without partisan controversy.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (4)
Rep. Tonko, Paul [D-NY-20], Rep. Krishnamoorthi, Raja [D-IL-8], Rep. Kean, Thomas H. [R-NJ-7], Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17]
Recent Actions
- 2025-04-24: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
- 2025-04-24: Submitted in House
- 2025-04-24: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Supporting the goals and ideals of Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month. — issued 2025-04-24 — PDF (4 pages)