20 USC § 3918
Approval of proposals
through Pub. L. 116-344, except Pub. Ls. 116-260 and 116-283
The Foundation shall adopt approval procedures designed to assure that awards are made on the basis of the scientific and educational merit as determined by the peer review process. To the maximum extent possible, the Foundation shall assure that there is an equitable distribution of resources with respect to institutions and geographical areas.