Congressional Research Service. April 13, 2012. 

Nanoscale science, engineering, and technology, commonly referred to collectively as nanotechnology, is believed by many to offer extraordinary economic and societal benefits. Congress has demonstrated continuing support for nanotechnology and has directed its attention primarily to three topics that may affect the realization of this hoped for potential: federal research and development (R&D) in nanotechnology; U.S. competitiveness; and environmental, health, and safety (EHS) concerns. This report provides an overview of these topics and of two others: nanomanufacturing and public understanding of and attitudes toward nanotechnology.

http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/RL34511.pdf [PDF format, 17 pages].