WASHINGTON D.C. – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after the House passed H.R. 1020, theSTEM Education Act of 2015, which redefines science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related education to also include computer science. This bill also encourages further research on extra-curricular STEM programs.

“By 2020, it’s estimated there will be 1.4 million jobs in the computing field. Yet despite these vast opportunities, computer science is still not recognized as a STEM subject. As a longtime supporter of STEM education, today I voted to rectify this, redefining STEM education to include computer science so students in Eastern Washington can pursue the training they need succeed. This bill also encourages out-of-school programs that support STEM education, so educational opportunities can continue after students leave the classroom. Today I voted to invest in our future leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs – and America’s ‘Opportunity Economy’ will be better and brighter because of it.”

TheSTEM Education Act of 2015 defines STEM education to include academic subjects that build on the subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, including computer science. It directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) to continue to award competitive, merit-based grants to support innovative out-of-school STEM learning.

It also amends the Noyce Scholarship Program to allow teachers with a bachelor’s degree working toward a master’s degree to participate in the program.

As a part of her efforts to advance STEM education, the Congresswoman supported the Brooks-Polis Computer Science Amendment in the Student Success Act of 2013.