The Joint Select Committee on
Research and Development

Welcome

The Joint Select Committee on Research and Development was created by the 118th Legislature by Joint Order to develop and recommend a plan for the support of research and development in 5 target areas within the State including: Aquaculture and marine sciences and technology; Biotechnology; Composite materials engineering; Environmental sciences and technology; Information sciences and technology. The plan must address the following issues: The role of research and development in the economic development strategy of the State; The relative role of educational institutions, governmental agencies, private research facilities and businesses within the State’s research and development strategy; The level of bonding for capital investments in support of research and development in the target areas and the manner in which such funds should be expended; The level of funding for the Maine Economic Improvement Fund, established pursuant to L.D. 1854, the manner in which such funds should be expended and the source for the funding; and The proper tax policy in support of research and development and, if that policy includes tax exemptions or other tax breaks, the method of funding that tax policy. The committee shall submit its findings and plan, along with any necessary implementing legislation, to the Second Regular Session of the 118th Legislature by January 1, 1998.