This bill would create a private nonprofit called the National Fab Lab Network. The nonprofit would not be a federal agency. The bill defines a "fab lab" as a local digital fabrication workshop with machines for making and testing designs, electronics tools, materials for short-run production, and 3D design workflows. The corporation's goals are to provide universal access to digital fabrication, foster and expand fab labs, link local labs into a national network, support STEM education and workforce development, spur invention and small business creation, and help communities meet needs. Key activities include seeking at least one fab lab in each congressional district (prioritizing underserved areas), maintaining a national registry, issuing standards and guidelines, training lab leaders and mentors, and helping start and sustain new labs. The board must have 7–15 members who together represent geographic regions, Tribal communities, schools and research institutions, libraries, nonprofits and commercial organizations, diverse demographic groups, and the Fab Foundation. The initial board members are to be appointed by congressional leaders (two each by the Senate majority leader, Senate minority leader, House Speaker, and House minority leader). The corporation may accept and distribute funds, make contracts, own or lease property, borrow money, charge dues or fees, develop bylaws, and produce guidance. It may not issue stock or dividends, make loans to officers, or claim congressional approval for its activities. The corporation must keep records and file an annual report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
If created, the nonprofit would work to open and connect local workshops where people can use advanced making tools. These labs could be places for hands-on learning in STEM, job training, inventing, small-scale production, and community projects. The bill focuses on reaching underserved areas and supporting local leaders and mentors.
No publicly available information on federal appropriations or direct federal costs. The corporation is allowed to accept funds from private sources and government agencies and to distribute funds to help establish and operate fab labs.
The bill's findings and goals say supporters view this network as a way to expand access to advanced making tools, strengthen STEM and workforce skills, encourage invention and small business creation, promote self-sufficiency and community problem solving, and connect local labs into a coordinated national effort.
No publicly available information.