Special Briefing for SPARC Members & Government Relations Offices: Potential Action on Open Access in the U.S. House
Due to the sensitive nature of this topic, this briefing will not be recorded.
The Senate recently passed the U.S. Innovation & Competition Act (USICA) which unexpectedly included language advancing access to federally-funded research results. The legislation now moves to the House where lawmakers are simultaneously working on another bill, the NSF for the Future Act. Open access will likely come up during discussions on either or both bills, and we want to ensure that your campus has all the relevant information about SPARC’s position on a zero-embargo national open access policy.
Although the timing of legislative action is uncertain, SPARC is offering this special briefing for members to learn about the current state of play and to ensure that your institution is prepared to take action in support of open access if and when the opportunity arises. This is an excellent opportunity for institutions to invite a representative from your government relations offices to also attend the briefing, if possible.
SPARC staff will detail potential legislative actions related to open access, describe SPARC’s advocacy position on a national open access policy, and outline potential opportunities for libraries and their institutions to weigh in with their congressional delegations in support of advancing open access. There will also be ample time for members and campus government relations representatives to ask questions and discuss strategies with the SPARC team.
If you are unable to attend, we would welcome you to send a designate from your leadership or scholarly communications team, and we’re also happy to meet separately with you and (if applicable) your government relations team to discuss the details of the briefing and answer questions.
