National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2009

The National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2009 (S. 1482) seeks to update and expand federal efforts to develop nanotechnology while strengthening oversight of its potential risks. The bill focuses on moving laboratory research into the commercial marketplace more quickly, specifically targeting advancements in areas like clean energy, water purification, and healthcare.

For the public, this legislation aims to ensure that as new nanotechnology products enter the home and workplace, they are backed by rigorous federal research into their environmental, health, and safety impacts. It also creates educational partnerships to help secondary school students prepare for careers in the nanotechnology industry and requires the government to include public input when making decisions about how this technology is regulated and used.