Wisconsin's Nanotechnology Initiative
What is Nanotechnology?
Nanotechnology is an amazing scientific breakthrough that holds much promise for Wisconsin's future and the world's. It is being used in breast cancer research and other medical advancements. Nanomaterials are also turning up in all kinds of consumer products - from MP3 players, to hockey sticks and socks. The public health and environmental
effects of these tiny particles are not well known. These materials are currently not tracked or regulated. Working with scientists, business leaders, and public policy makers, Terese has spent the past several years helping Wisconsin take a step toward better assessing a response to this groundbreaking technology - response in the public interest. A response that includes public health and environmental safety as a priority, along with the economic development potential that will enhance our state's economy.
Legislative Actions
Terese began exploring the creation of a Wisconsin Nanotechnology Registry in 2007, after attending a seminar inspired in part by a neighbor in the 76th Assembly District -- a neighbor who happens to be a nanoscientist.
At the request of Rep. Berceau, the Assembly Public Health Committee conducted a first-ever Wisconsin legislative informational hearing on October 6, 2009. The hearing addressed the benefits and risks policy makers need to understand about the emerging science of nanotechnology. Woodrow Wilson Institute nanoscience expert Dr. Andrew Maynard was among the distinguished panel members presenting testimony. Other speakers included Wisconsin Technology Council president Tom Still and experts from the Wisconsin DNR, the UW Engineering Department, and the State Laboratory of Hygiene.
On December 16, 2009, Representative Terese Berceau, Representative Chuck Benedict, and Representative Penny Bernard Schaber sent a letter to the co-chairs of the Joint Legislative Council Committee, requesting a study be conducted on the feasibility of creating a nanotechnology registry in Wisconsin. The study was approved by the Joint Legislative Council Committee in June of 2010. Terese will be the primary authro of 2011-12 legislation based in part on the findings and recommendations of the comittee members.
Special Committee on Nanotechnology
The Special Committee on Nanotechnology is directed to examine the human health and environmental concerns related to the manufacture, use, and disposal of nanomaterials and develop legislation to address these concerns. In particular, the Special Committee shall consider the establishment of methods to monitor nanomaterials by use of a nanotechnology registry system or the imposition of other disclosure requirements. The Special Committee shall also develop strategies to facilitate the development of nanotechnology to create and retain jobs in Wisconsin, including ways in which government can help nanotechnology researchers, small firms, and start-ups address potential risks and meet regulatory requirements. You can view videos from the Special Committee on Nanotechnology on WisconsinEye.
Resources for Additional Information on Nanotechnology
Articles of Interest
Here are some links to media stories about nanotechnology and the struggle to promote a new Wisconsin industry while assuring some basic oversight. Such oversight that is lacking in every state and in most countries.