S. 1070: National STEM Week Act
Sponsor
Joni Ernst
Republican · IA
Bill Progress
Latest Action · Feb 26, 2026
Passed the Senate, received in House
Why it matters
America needs more scientists and engineers—this bill aims to inspire the next generation.
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.
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.
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 does S. 1070 do?
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 from S. 1070?
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 is affected by S. 1070?
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.
S. 1070 Common Questions
Which places would National STEM Week apply to besides the 50 states?
Under the National STEM Week Act (Section 3), “State” also includes Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
How long would National STEM Week last under this bill?
According to S1070 Section 3, the government could designate one week each calendar year as “National STEM Week.”
Does the National STEM Week Act expire after 5 years?
Yes. Under the National STEM Week Act (Section 3), the authority to designate National STEM Week and run related activities ends 5 years after enactment.
Can families be included in National STEM Week activities at home?
Yes. Under the National STEM Week Act (Section 3), families of students at participating institutions are encouraged to engage in STEM activities at home and in the community.
Can companies provide mentorship and site visits during National STEM Week?
Yes. According to S1070 Section 3, STEM industries are encouraged to offer mentorship, site visits, guest lectures, funding, resources, and expertise.
What has to be reported after National STEM Week happens?
Under the National STEM Week Act (Section 3), the committee must report activities, nationwide participation, impacts on STEM education and educational gaps, and recommendations for future STEM Weeks.
Does the bill include colleges and universities in National STEM Week?
Yes. Under the National STEM Week Act (Section 3), “educational institution” includes elementary schools, secondary schools, and institutions of higher education.
Can nonprofits participate as industry partners in National STEM Week?
Yes. According to S1070 Section 3, an “industry partner” can be either a for-profit or nonprofit entity supporting National STEM Week’s purposes.
Does National STEM Week require consultation with stakeholders before the week is chosen?
Yes. Under the National STEM Week Act (Section 3), the annual designation must be made in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
What are the goals of National STEM Week under S1070?
According to S1070 Section 3, it aims to highlight STEM education, showcase career pathways, encourage family STEM engagement, build school-industry partnerships, and support state and local activities.
Based on S. 1070 bill text
S1070 Legislative Journey
Passed
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)
+1 more action this day
Committee Action
Feb 12, 2026
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.
Passed Committee
Oct 21, 2025
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Committee Action
Mar 14, 2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
About the Sponsor
Joni Ernst
Republican, IA · 11 years in Congress
Committees: Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, Armed Services
View full profile →
Cosponsors (1)
This bill has 1 cosponsor: 1 Democrat. Cosponsors represent 1 state: Minnesota.
Committee Sponsors
Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
1 of 28 committee members cosponsored
15 Republicans across this committee haven't cosponsored yet. Mobilize their constituents
S. 1070 Quick Facts
- Committee
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation
- Chamber
- Senate
- Policy
- Education
- Introduced
- Mar 14, 2025
Passed the Senate, received in House
Feb 26, 2026
Constituent Resources
S. 1070 Bill Text
“To establish a National STEM Week to promote American innovation and enhance STEM education pathways for all students, including those in rural, urban, and underserved communities.”
Source: U.S. Government Publishing Office
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