0
Scientific Integrity Act
3/7/2025, 4:23 AM
Summary of Bill HR 1106
The bill outlines several key provisions, including the requirement for Federal agencies to develop and implement scientific integrity policies that promote transparency, accountability, and the use of evidence-based decision-making in their research activities. It also calls for the establishment of mechanisms to protect scientists and researchers from retaliation for speaking out about scientific misconduct or political interference.
Additionally, the bill requires Federal agencies to make their scientific research data and findings publicly available, in order to promote transparency and accountability in the scientific community. It also mandates that agencies establish procedures for reviewing and addressing allegations of scientific misconduct, in order to maintain the integrity of the research process. Overall, the Scientific Integrity Act seeks to uphold the principles of scientific integrity and ensure that Federal agencies are conducting research in a fair, unbiased, and transparent manner. By establishing clear policies and procedures for scientific research, this bill aims to promote the credibility and reliability of scientific findings in the United States.
Congressional Summary of HR 1106
Scientific Integrity Act
This bill requires each federal agency that funds, conducts, or oversees scientific research to adopt and enforce a scientific integrity policy.
Under the bill, among other parameters, such policies must (1) ensure that scientific conclusions are not based on political considerations, (2) prohibit the suppression or alteration of findings, and (3) permit researchers to disseminate their findings and engage with the scientific community as appropriate. Scientific integrity policies must also include a mechanism through which stakeholders may report violations of the policy.
Agencies are required to submit their scientific integrity policies to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) for approval. Approved policies must be made public, submitted to Congress, and periodically updated. Agencies may use their existing policies provided they satisfy the requirements of the bill. The Government Accountability Office must review implementation of the policies.
Each agency is also required to (1) appoint a Scientific Integrity Officer, (2) establish a process for dispute resolution consistent with the scientific integrity policy, and (3) establish a specified training program for current and new employees.
