; and (ii) make grants to applicants that submit research proposals selected by the National Emerging Contaminant Research Initiative in accordance with subparagraph (B). (B) Selection of research proposals The National Emerging Contaminant Research Initiative shall select research proposals to receive grants under this paragraph on the basis of merit, using criteria identified by the Director, including the likelihood that the proposed research will result in significant progress toward achieving the objectives identified in the Federal research strategy. (C) Eligible entities Any entity or group of two or more entities may submit to the head of each agency described in paragraph (1)(C) a research proposal in response to the solicitation for research proposals described in subparagraph (A), including— (i) State and local agencies; (ii) public institutions, including public institutions of higher education; (iii) private corporations; and (iv) nonprofit organizations. (d) Federal assistance and support for States (1) Study (A) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall conduct a study on actions the Administrator can take to increase assistance and support for States that require testing facilities for emerging contaminants in drinking water samples. (B) Contents of study In carrying out the study described in subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall identify— (i) methods to increase technical assistance on emerging contaminants to States, including identifying opportunities for States to improve communication with various audiences about the risks associated with emerging contaminants; (ii) means to facilitate access to qualified contract testing laboratory facilities that conduct analyses for emerging contaminants