Counterbalance: An Analysis of Scientific and Technical Information Requirements to Support the Legislative Task in Puerto Rico, Project Report, Volume 1

摘要

Project Counterbalance was created to investigate the scientific and technical (S & T) information needs of the Legislature of Puerto Rico, to find out where this information is needed, and how it can be made readily available to the public. This report is based on S & T data collected from committee reports, surveys, and interviews. It consists of a summary, conclusions, and recommendations including a complete plan of action. These findings were made: The Legislature of Puerto Rico needs more S & T information; Areas of need are energy, natural resources, socio-economics, environmental quality, health, and education; New procedures must be devised for finding and handling S & T information. It is recommended that this work can be carried out simultaneously in three phases: (1) establishment of an inquiry-response service, cooperation with the University of Puerto Rico, development of a directory of local S & T sources of expertise, an intern program, and training of personnel; (2) long range studies by staff members and expanding access to local and national data banks; and (3) establishment of a joint committee of S & T in the Legislature and a center of S & T resources where information can be shared between the legislative and the scientific community.