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Re: New legislation?
For several years now the State of Michigan has helped FIRST by helping to sponsor our regionals through the economic development commission or some part of the Dept. of Commerce. Having regionals close by is one of the best ways to encourage new teams.
Legislatively, the states could do more to encourage technical education. Here in Michigan, the state requires all kinds of academic classes, but schools let some kids satisfy the technology requirement by taking a one semester Word Processing class. Funding should be provided for schools to equip and operate computer labs and some kind of shop facility (even a facility shared with FIRST, theater tech, and other groups). If kids are exposed to what engineering and technology are really about, there might be more of a demand for programs like FIRST.
The state government can issue proclamations and other recognition to schools that take the effort to compete in things other than sports. Every little bit of publicity helps.
He could give businesses incentives to support FIRST. Maybe just ensuring that contributions of materials and cash, maybe even labor, are fully deductible from state taxes. Maybe something more.
Perhaps schools can be encouraged to support FRC, Lego League, and other academic competitions (Science Olympiad, etc) as part of their Accreditation or other process.
Many state legislatures are trying to fight State Universities spiraling tuition costs. Perhaps some of their funding should be based on how much they help local high school programs.
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