Latest Action · Feb 26, 2026
Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S716; text of amendment in the nature of a substitute: CR S716)
Bill Progress
Congress Wants a National STEM Week
Why it matters
America needs more scientists and engineers—this bill aims to inspire the next generation.
The big picture: S1070, the National STEM Week Act, directs the government to create an annual National STEM Week. The goal: spotlight STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) paths and get more students—especially from rural, urban, and underserved backgrounds—excited about these fields.
Zoom in: The bill isn't about spending more federal money or creating new federal programs. Instead, it uses the power of visibility: declaring a week for events, partnerships, and educational activities that celebrate innovation, teamwork, and careers in STEM. The National Science and Technology Council will choose the week each year, working with schools, companies, and local organizations.
Between the lines: The focus on underserved areas signals that lawmakers see diversity as key to America's future workforce. By building enthusiasm through both schools and at-home, after-school, and community activities, the bill hopes to spark lifelong STEM interest and close longstanding gaps in who goes into these fields.
What This Bill Does
Annual National STEM Week
Designates a week each year as 'National STEM Week' to raise awareness and excitement around science, technology, engineering, and math.
Inclusive Focus
Requires that STEM Week promote participation from students in rural, urban, and underserved communities.
Collaboration Across Sectors
Calls for partnerships between schools, companies, and communities to offer programs and events.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Encourages both formal (school-based) and informal (afterschool, home, community) STEM activities.
Led by Existing Council
Gives responsibility to the National Science and Technology Council's CoSTEM committee to designate the week and consult with stakeholders.
Who Benefits
Students in rural, urban, and underserved areas
Gain greater access to fun, high-quality STEM learning and career inspiration.
Teachers and schools
Get new opportunities and national attention for STEM programs and partnerships.
STEM-focused companies and nonprofits
Able to reach and recruit future talent, and support local educational initiatives.
Parents and families
Introduced to new ways they can support their kids’ interest in STEM through at-home projects and events.
Who's Affected
K-12 students nationwide
Exposed to more STEM events and opportunities, potentially influencing their studies and career goals.
School administrators and educators
Asked to participate or host events, connect with outside partners, and promote STEM pathways.
Community organizations
May organize STEM activities or collaborate with schools and companies during the designated week.
Policy makers and advocates
Gain a new platform to highlight the importance of STEM education and workforce diversity.
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S716; text of amendment in the nature of a substitute: CR S716)
Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 339.
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Cruz with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 119-110.
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Cruz with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 119-110.
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Introduced in Senate
Committees (1)
Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
Senate · Standing
Reported By · Feb 12, 2026
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Full Bill Text
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View the complete legislative text on Congress.gov
Source: Congress.gov
