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What is the Congressional Chemistry Caucus?

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Scott Openshaw
CONTACT US
by LabNotes

The Congressional Chemistry Caucus was established in 2016 in the House of Representatives. The Caucus is both bipartisan and bicameral, as members of the Senate joined in 2017. The Congressional Chemistry Caucus is a partnership between the American Chemical Society (ACS), the American Chemistry Council (ACC), and the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD).

The mission of the Caucus is to educate members of congress, their staff, and the public on the amazing things chemistry does in today’s society. Chemistry has a huge impact on our country, so it only makes sense that lawmakers should have a vested interest in the industry. As of August 2017, there are 75 members of the caucus from 27 states. Representatives account for 62 of those members and 13 Senators make up the rest of the total.

Senatorial support for the Congressional Chemistry Caucus began with cosponsors Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Christopher A. Coons (D-Delaware) and Gary C. Peters (D-Michigan). These Senators understand how vital chemistry is to the economy of their states and the country as a whole. And at least two of the four cosponsors have a background in Chemistry. Senator Coons was a chemistry major in college and recognizes that chemistry is an important part of his home state of Delaware’s history. Senator Daines is a chemical engineer (the only one in Congress) and looks forward to solving problems with the Caucus.

In 2016, Congressman John Moolenaar (R-Michigan) and Daniel Lipinski (D-Illinois) came together to form the Caucus with the ACS, ACC, and NACD. What started with two forward-thinking men has grown into a membership of more than 70 members from the House of Representatives and the Senate. As the Caucus continues to grow, there will be even more members, representing even more states.

Is your state represented in the Congressional Chemistry Caucus? If not, contact your Senator or your Representative and tell them how important chemistry is to our country and urge them to join.

American Chemistry Council

The American Chemistry Council’s mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and Communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainably—for generations to come.