Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives in support of science diplomacy, and for other purposes.

Bill Number

H.Res. 623

Origin Chamber

House

Congress

119th Congress, Session 1

Policy Area

International Affairs

Status

Introduced

Latest Action

2025-08-01: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Last Updated

2025-09-11T17:23:44Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This House Resolution (H. Res. 623) expresses the sense of the U.S. House of Representatives in support of science diplomacy—the use of scientific collaborations between nations to tackle global issues and build international partnerships. It highlights science as a tool for diplomacy, drawing on examples like international research facilities, and urges the Department of State to strengthen its science and technology capabilities.

Key Provisions

• Background Context (Whereas Clauses):
• Emphasizes the Department of State's mission to promote security, democracy, and prosperity globally.
• Notes how science and technology advancements affect daily life and require international cooperation on complex problems like health, environment, and security.
• Describes science diplomacy as a "common language" for cross-cultural collaboration, with examples such as CERN (a European nuclear research organization that united former adversaries) and SESAME (a Middle East synchrotron facility involving scientists from Israel, Iran, and neighboring countries).
• References historical U.S. efforts, including the creation of a Science and Technology Adviser position in 1999 and the State Department's Office of Science and Technology Cooperation, which supports U.S. foreign policy through innovation.

• Resolved Actions:
• Recognizes the need to address growing global challenges through international cooperation.
• Reaffirms that scientific engagement advances U.S. diplomatic and security interests.
• Calls on the Secretary of State to:
• Develop "foresight assessments" (forward-looking evaluations) focused on science and technology trends.
• Create a Science and Technology Advisory Board of independent experts to advise on technical issues tied to foreign policy.
• Elevate the Science and Technology Adviser to the status of an Assistant Secretary (a senior leadership role).
• Review and increase the number of Foreign Service Officers (diplomats) with technical expertise, including better training and recruitment.
• Explore reviving a "Foreign Service Reserve Officer functional cone" (a specialized track for temporary experts in science, technology, and other areas).

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This is a non-binding resolution, meaning it does not create enforceable laws or amend statutes. It builds on existing structures like the Science and Technology Adviser role but introduces no mandatory changes. Instead, it offers recommendations to enhance the Department of State's operations without altering legal frameworks.

Potential Impacts

• On Government Agencies: Could encourage the Department of State to integrate more science expertise into diplomacy, potentially improving responses to global issues like pandemics or climate change. This might lead to internal reorganizations, such as advisory boards or personnel adjustments, to modernize operations.
• On Citizens: Indirect benefits for U.S. citizens through stronger international scientific ties, which could foster innovation, economic opportunities, and collaborative solutions to shared problems (e.g., medical research or environmental protection).
• On International Relations: Promotes U.S. leadership in science diplomacy, potentially easing tensions in regions like the Middle East by facilitating scientist-to-scientist interactions. It may strengthen partnerships with allies and adversaries alike, reducing geopolitical risks through cooperative projects.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• U.S. Department of State: Primary target, including its leadership, Foreign Service Officers, and offices focused on science and technology.
• Scientists and Researchers: U.S. and international experts who could gain from expanded collaborations and advisory roles.
• Congress: The House of Representatives, which uses this to signal priorities; it was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs for review.
• International Partners: Governments and institutions in countries involved in joint projects, such as those in Europe (e.g., CERN) or the Middle East (e.g., SESAME), benefiting from U.S.-led diplomacy.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal: As a "sense of the House" resolution, it has no binding force and does not require presidential approval or judicial review. It aligns with constitutional powers of Congress to oversee foreign affairs (Article I, Section 8) but stops short of directing executive action.
• Constitutional: Reinforces the separation of powers by advising rather than mandating the executive branch, avoiding potential conflicts with the president's foreign policy authority.
• Political: Signals bipartisan support (introduced by Rep. Foster and Rep. Friedman) for prioritizing science in U.S. diplomacy amid global challenges. It could influence future funding or legislation, such as appropriations for the State Department, and highlights a shift toward "soft power" strategies in international relations, potentially appealing to pro-innovation constituencies without partisan controversy.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. Foster, Bill [D-IL-11]

Cosponsors (2)

Rep. Friedman, Laura [D-CA-30], Rep. McClain Delaney, April [D-MD-6]

Recent Actions

• 2025-08-01: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
• 2025-08-01: Submitted in House
• 2025-08-01: Submitted in House

Bill Versions

• Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives in support of science diplomacy, and for other purposes. — issued 2025-08-01 — PDF (4 pages)