Congress is taking an active role in understanding and responding to the underlying problems that confront America's competitiveness in the global economy. During the 109th congressional session, legislation has been introduced addressing the importance of mathematics and science in the global economy. The Senate's Protecting America's Competitive Edge (PACE) Act enhances America's competitiveness through programs targeted at math and science education, research, and industry incentives. The House's "Innovation" package seeks to improve K-12 student performance in mathematics and science, and to attract individuals to earn degrees and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). At the Business-Higher Education Forum (BHEF) summer 2006 meeting, Senator Jeff Bingaman discussed why he, along with Senator Lamar Alexander and Representatives Sherwood Boehlert and Bart Gordon, commissioned the National Academies to recommend actions that would enhance STEM in America. He also detailed the PACE legislation, including its importance for the American economy. At the same meeting, Congressman Boehlert discussed efforts in commissioning the National Academies to deliver recommendations on how to enhance STEM, the House Science Committee's recent hearings on this topic, and details of the "Innovation" legislation, including its role in maintaining American economic and national security. (Contains 3 boxes and 1 table.)