Detailed Summary

National Nanotechnology Intiative Amendments Act of 2008 - Revises the 21st Century Nanotechology Research and Development Act with regard to strategic plans developed pursuant to the National Nanotechnology Program.

Requires agencies participating in the Program to support the setting of standards for nanotechnology.

Sets forth a new funding requirement with respect to the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office. Requires the Office to be supported by funds from each agency participating in the Program. Sets forth annual reporting requirements regarding the Office.

Makes the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel a distinct entity. Instructs the Panel to form a subpanel to enable it in assessing whether societal, ethical, legal, environmental, and workforce concerns are adequately addressed by the Program.

Rewrites provisions for triennial external review of the Program.

Provides for the designation of an associate director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy as the Coordinator for Societal Dimensions of Nanotechnology. Requires the Coordinator to convene a panel to develop a research plan.

Provides for one or more grants to establish Nanotechnology Education Partnerships.

Establishes an Education Working Group.

Requires agencies supporting nanotechnology research facilities to provide access to such facilities to assist companies in the development of prototypes of nanoscale products, devices, or processes.

Sets forth requirements for the support of nanotechnology related projects under existing nanotechnology transfer programs. Establishes industry liaison groups.

Requires coordination and leveraging of federal investments with states' nanotechnology initiatives.

Requires the Program to include support for nanotechnology research and development in areas of national importance.

Sets forth provisions regarding nanomanufacturing research, including green nanomanufacturing research. Requires specified reviews.

Status of the Legislation

Latest Major Action: 6/6/2008: Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Points in Favor

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Points Against

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