publications entered into the computer's storage system and 

 indexed for easy access. Additionally, a summary of the content 

 of each publication is also stored and indexed in the 

 legislature's computer system. Of course, information is also 

 being kept on file on science/engineering/technology sources 

 outside the state. This includes the Model Interstate Scientific 

 and Technical Information Clearing House and access information 

 for the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer. 



In order to enhance the selection of a 

 science/engineering/technology model for use by the North 

 Carolina General Assembly, the SSET staff examined operating 

 programs in other states which utilized various approaches to 

 providing SSET information for legislators. The staff carefully 

 examined the descriptions of other SSET programs supplied by NCSL 

 staff, and the various types of approaches were viewed in light 

 of the other relevant research data collected in connection with 

 the project. The staff chose to travel to Massachusetts for a 

 first hand examination of their programs and to talk by phone and 

 correspond extensively with Oklahoma to learn about their 

 program. Massachusetts is working on a legislative SSET 

 improvement grant (improvement of significant existing science 

 mechanism) and Oklahoma is working on an SSET development grant 

 (initial experience in working with science mechanism) . Outlines 

 of these state program examinations are attached (Exhibit A and 

 Exhibit B) . It was felt that the information acguired by other 

 states in problem-solving for their programs would be useful to 

 North Carolina in its planning and development of an SSET model. 



