RE: Prevent misuse of science--Cosponsor S. 1358

Dear Senator ,

Please take action to prevent the misuse of government science by cosponsoring the Restore Scientific Integrity to Federal Research and Policy Making Act (S. 1358).

Countless policy and legislative decisions affecting the health and safety of the American public and the environment rely upon transparent, independent scientific information. Over the past several years, however, science has been suppressed, manipulated, and distorted by high-level federal agency officials at an unprecedented level, threatening our nation's unparalleled scientific legacy and capacity.

In one recent example, a Government Accountability Office report found that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had distorted its analysis of the health impacts of mercury on brain development in children and fetuses. The EPA's own inspector general reported that agency scientists had been pressured to alter scientific findings to justify the Administration's industry-friendly rules.

Unfortunately, this sort of political interference with science is just one of many examples. In the wake of these abuses, the scientific community has spoken out, calling for an end to the political manipulation of science.

The Restore Scientific Integrity Act would take significant steps to prevent the misuse of science and ensure that decision makers have access to independent scientific advice. The legislation will:

Help prevent the manipulation of scientific data by prohibiting federal employees from tampering with or censoring federally funded scientific research.
Protect government scientists by strengthening whistleblower protections.
Increase the independence of federal science advisory committees by prohibiting political litmus tests.
Improve the transparency of the science advisory process.
Enhance the quality of government science by requiring appropriate peer review process.
Establish an annual report to Congress by the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy on the state of scientific integrity in the federal government.

The American public has the right to expect its government to make informed decisions based upon independent scientific input. I strongly urge you to help preserve the scientific integrity that is critical to making decisions that protect our safety and security by promptly cosponsoring S. 1358.

Most Sincerely,

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