1.__Outcome measures.__Establish outcome measures considered appropriate by public and private practioners in and outside of the State in the fields of research and development and economic development.__Maine practioners must include, but not be limited to, a representative from the University of Maine System, a representative of the targeted technology sectors, a representative of the Department of Economic and Community Development and representatives of other state agencies having economic development responsibility;

2.__Independent reviewers.__Utilize nationally recognized independent reviewers to assess the competitiveness of the State's technology sectors and the impact of the State's research and development activities on economic development in the State; and

3.__Recommendations.__Make recommendations to the Legislature on existing and proposed state-supported research and development programs and activities to affect technology-based economic development in the State.

Sec. L-2. Plan for comprehensive evaluation of research and development investments. By December 31, 1999, the Maine Science and Technology Foundation shall submit to the Joint Select Committee on Research and Development matters a plan for a comprehensive evaluation of state investments in research and development. The strategy must be developed collaboratively by public, private and nonprofit entities.

PART M

Sec. M-1. 5 MRSA §13131, as enacted by PL 1995, c. 445, §2, is amended to read:

§13131. Establishment of the Maine Technology Capacity Fund

The Maine Technology Investment Capacity Fund is established within the Maine Science and Technology Foundation to strengthen employment opportunities in the State by increasing the science and technology investment level through partnerships among the State Government, private enterprise, the Federal Government and private and public research institutions. The fund may be used to match federal, foundation or other grants and to invest directly in market-oriented technology extension,