HR0439 100TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0439 LRB100 08053 MST 18138 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Healthy and vibrant communities are essential to the development and maintenance of a strong work force and general populace, which in turn supports a sustainable and robust manufacturing and business climate, which is essential to a healthy and growing economic climate in Illinois; and

WHEREAS, Research, innovation, market development, education, and training are all vital components to a robust economic climate in Illinois; and

WHEREAS, Healthy environments include clean and sustainable water resources, and clean air supported by the best practices in emissions from energy, manufacturing, and food production; and

WHEREAS, The future water needs of Illinois residents and businesses may increase by 20 to 50% in the coming decades; diseases transmitted by animals and through contaminated water jeopardize the health of Illinois families and workers; too much or too little rain can have dire impacts on lives, property, agriculture, and water supplies; and

WHEREAS, New and renewable energy sources and methods for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions are needed to protect our environment while meeting future energy needs and supporting community resiliency; and

WHEREAS, Changing environmental conditions, insect pests, invasive plants and fish, and land erosion threaten crop production and commercial activities, potentially costing the Illinois economy billions of dollars; requiring conservation and effective management of natural resources are especially important today with changing land uses and declining natural habitats; and

WHEREAS, Illinois history and cultural resources are at risk as archaeological sites and artifacts are continually under threat; proper stewardship is needed to protect these resources for future generations; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois economy is enhanced by the research and sustainable practices developed and shared through extension practices at several State universities and research institutions, such as the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois; and

WHEREAS, Applied research refers to scientific study and research that seeks to find solutions and solve practical everyday problems, cure illness, and develop innovative technologies; and

WHEREAS, Basic scientific research is defined as fundamental or experimental investigative research to advance knowledge without a specifically envisaged or immediately practical application, and where the partnership between basic and applied research is the bedrock of innovation and economic development; and

WHEREAS, New scientific knowledge is essential not only for fostering innovation and promoting economic development, but also for informing good policy development, and as a sound foundation for education and training; the integration of basic and applied research is crucial to problem-solving, innovation, and product development; and

WHEREAS, The Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois is home to five State Scientific Surveys, including the Illinois Natural History Survey, the Illinois State Archaeological Survey, the Illinois State Geological Survey, the Illinois State Water Survey, and the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center; and

WHEREAS, The history of the surveys and their service to the residents of Illinois date to the mid-1800s and their collections of biological, geological, and archeological specimens and artifacts are equal to many scientific institutions and museums around the world; and

WHEREAS, The researchers and staff of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois have been recognized for their expertise and practical innovation in multiple scientific fields, manufacturing applications, and agricultural development; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDREDTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois is recognized for its excellence in research and development of practical applications and practices that help address multiple health, environmental, agricultural, and manufacturing problems facing Illinois residents and businesses; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the State of Illinois reaffirms its support for both basic and applied research, advocates for the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois, and recognizes that such institutions are a vital component of the Illinois economy and general welfare of the residents of the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be presented to the Governor, the Secretary of State, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois, the President of the University of Illinois, and the Executive Director of the Prairie Research Institute.