The Bayh-Dole Coalition Celebrates the Legacy of Senator Robert Dole

The Bayh-Dole Coalition Celebrates the Legacy of Senator Robert Dole

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2021) – Today, the Bayh-Dole Coalition issued the following statement on the death of Senator Robert Dole:

“Members of the Bayh-Dole Coalition were saddened to learn of the passing of former Senator Robert Dole. Senator Dole was a fitting representative of “the greatest generation.” As a 22-year-old Second Lieutenant, Bob Dole was seriously wounded leading his platoon in the closing days of World War II and as a result, decided to dedicate his life to public service. He did so through service in the Kansas House of Representatives, U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, and finally, as a Republican presidential nominee.

“Among his many achievements was the passage and implementation of the Bayh-Dole Act, which the Economist Technology Quarterly termed “perhaps the most inspired piece of legislation to be enacted in America over the past half-century.” The law helped revive the U.S. economy by streamlining public-private sector collaboration and incentivizing the development of products discovered with federally-supported research. It has bolstered U.S. economic output by up to $1.7 trillion, supported nearly 6 million jobs, and led to the creation of therapies that are saving lives around the world.

“Senator Robert Dole was a true American hero and the Bayh-Dole Coalition will celebrate his legacy as his influence continues to benefit our society. He will be sorely missed.”

About the Bayh-Dole Coalition: The Bayh-Dole Coalition is a diverse group of research and scientific organizations, as well as those directly involved in commercializing new products, dedicated to protecting the Bayh-Dole Act and educating policymakers about the positive impacts of the legislation.