Scientific Integrity Act
Key claim: Federal research agencies would be required to establish enforceable scientific integrity policies barring political interference with scientific findings and appoint dedicated Scientific Integrity Officers.
Abstract
(HR4893 · 118th Congress) Scientific Integrity Act This bill revises provisions regarding the release of scientific research results by federal agencies. Each agency that funds, conducts, or oversees scientific research must (1) adopt and enforce a scientific integrity policy that includes certain requirements, such as restricting scientific conclusions from being based on political considerations; and (2) submit such policy to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) for approval. Agencies must make their policies public, submit them to Congress, and periodically update them with OSTP’s approval. The Government Accountability Office shall review implementation of the policies. Each agency shall (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. Latest action (2023-07-25): Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Why this matters
The bill would make scientific integrity policies and dedicated oversight officers statutory requirements for federal research agencies, creating agency responsibilities for protecting scientific findings from political interference. It remains an introduced proposal referred to committee, not an enacted change to researchers’ protections or agencies’ obligations.