MAKERS Act

2/26/2025, 5:23 AM

Summary of Bill HR 812

Bill 119 HR 812, also known as the Makerspace Act of 2021, aims to promote the development of makerspaces through grants awarded by the Director of the National Science Foundation. Makerspaces are collaborative workspaces where individuals can gather to create, invent, and learn using a variety of tools and resources.

The bill seeks to support research on the benefits of makerspaces and their impact on innovation, education, and workforce development. By providing funding for the development of makerspaces, the legislation aims to increase access to these spaces for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

In addition to supporting the creation of makerspaces, the bill also includes provisions for evaluating the effectiveness of these spaces and promoting best practices for their operation. By encouraging the growth of makerspaces and supporting research in this area, the Makerspace Act of 2021 aims to foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation in communities across the United States.

Congressional Summary of HR 812

Making Advances Kinetic Education, Research, and Skills Act or the MAKERS Act

This bill requires the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award competitive grants to institutions of higher education to support research and development related to makerspaces. Under the bill, makerspaces are defined as community spaces that provide learners and entrepreneurs with tools, technology, and knowledge, and support educational opportunities for personal growth, workforce training, and early-stage business ventures.

Grant funds may be used to support research on the effectiveness of makerspaces in engaging students and communities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), among other functions.

In awarding grants, the NSF must prioritize certain applicants, including (1) community colleges and minority-serving institutions; and (2) institutions that apply in partnership with workforce development entities, high-need local educational agencies, or independent nonprofit or academic makerspaces.

Current Status of Bill HR 812

Bill HR 812 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 28, 2025. Bill HR 812 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 28, 2025.  Bill HR 812's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. as of January 28, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 812

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
3
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
17
Democrat Cosponsors
15
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 812

Primary Policy Focus


Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 812

To direct the Director of the National Science Foundation to award grants for, and support research on, the development of makerspaces, and for other purposes.To direct the Director of the National Science Foundation to award grants for, and support research on, the development of makerspaces, and for other purposes.
Start holding our government accountable!

Comments