National Innovation Act of 2006

This bill, introduced in 2006, seeks to strengthen the United States' global economic competitiveness by significantly increasing federal investment in science, technology, and engineering. It proposes doubling research funding for the National Science Foundation, creating new grants for innovative manufacturing, and establishing "regional innovation hot spots" to boost local economies.

For everyday citizens, the bill aims to create high-tech job opportunities and modernize the workforce by expanding graduate fellowships and supporting "professional science master’s" programs. Additionally, it would make the research and development tax credit permanent for businesses and explore the creation of "lifelong learning accounts" to help workers pay for ongoing education and training throughout their careers.