We the undersigned American scientists, publishers, funders, patient advocates, librarians and members of the public endorse a national policy that would ensure that Americans are no longer denied access to the results of research their tax dollars paid for. We have read recent media reports that the executive branch is considering a zero embargo taxpayer access policy, and we are writing to express our strong support for such a move.
Requiring scientists to make publications arising from taxpayer funded research immediately available to the public will quicken the pace of research and innovation. It will bring the benefits of America’s massive investment in basic and applied science to our citizens and companies faster and more effectively than the obsolete system in place today. And it has the potential to save hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars every year.