Committee backs technology partnerships for U.S. labs

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved without debate Wednesday a bill designed to improve technology within the Energy Department's laboratories by setting up partnerships with private research groups.Among other things, the bill (S-517) would authorize a $10 million pilot program to improve the ability of the National Laboratories to support the missions of the Energy Department. It would also direct each National Laboratory to establish a small business advocacy and assistance program as well as a technology partnership ombudsman. The legislation was included in a package of other legislation approved by voice vote, without dissent. It now goes to the Senate.