Follow the Science Act

Legislative bill overview

HR 7173, the "Follow the Science Act," was introduced in January 2026 and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The bill's specific provisions are not detailed in the available information, though the title suggests it focuses on ensuring scientific evidence guides policy decisions across federal agencies.

Why is this important

Federal agencies make decisions affecting public health, environmental protection, and economic policy. How agencies weigh scientific evidence versus other factors significantly impacts regulatory outcomes and public trust. This bill appears aimed at establishing or reinforcing standards for science-based decision-making in government.

Potential points of contention

• Defining "science": Disputes may arise over which research qualifies as valid science, how to weigh conflicting studies, and the role of peer review versus emerging evidence
• Regulatory burden: Requirements to prioritize scientific evidence could accelerate or expand regulations, raising concerns about implementation costs for industries and government agencies
• Agency discretion: Tension between mandating science-based decisions and preserving agency flexibility to consider economic, social, and political factors Congress intentionally built into existing law