First, we register strong support for freedom of information. Without question, the public deserves access to research that its taxes have funded. Conducting research and making it of use to the citizenry is one of the primary goals of our institutions. In our own self interest, universities and researchers want maximum dissemination of all research and appropriate credit for their efforts. Secondly, we register an equally strong commitment to research integrity.
Sound research conducted efficiently serves the taxpayer best.
It is a reasonable expectation of the researcher and the public that federal law support responsible and reliable research. Further, we feel that it is a university responsibility to protect research integrity. You will receive many letters from research universities and associations that relay concrete examples of possible unintended ramifications of proposed A-110. In particular, we register our support for the well-documented and thoughtful letter from the Association of American Universities. Additionally, the willingness of business and industry to form research partnerships with universities could decrease due to questions that would certainly be raised regarding the ownership of intellectual property.