Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2022
Floor Speech
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Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act.
Just over 2 years ago, I joined Congressman McCaul to introduce the CHIPS for America Act to reassert American leadership in the strategically important semiconductor industry.
I will admit, when Senator Cornyn, Senator Warner, Congressman McCaul, and I started this effort, a lot of Members would ask me: What are these semiconductors, and why are they so important?
Well, I think it is clear this bill answers that question. Semiconductors are fundamental building blocks of the 21st century economy, and we simply cannot live without them.
But since we started this effort, the global chip shortage has only grown more severe and the need for legislation more pressing. Thankfully, by passing the CHIPS bill today, we are sending a clear message: The United States is still the gold standard for innovation.
I am glad we are acting today because other countries aren't waiting. They are making aggressive investments to try to surpass us.
The European Chips Act sets a goal of reaching 20 percent of worldwide semiconductor production by 2030. In Asia, Korea and India offer 50 percent design credits, and Taiwan offers a 15 percent R&D credit. So, passing CHIPS gives us the tools we need to stay ahead of the pack.
Bringing manufacturing and research back to the United States will have positive benefits in the short and long term. As new fabs funded by the CHIPS Act come online, they hold the potential to anchor regional technology clusters, creating well-paying jobs and spreading out America's base of skilled workers.
This, in turn, can provide a more secure and resilient supply chain for the mission-critical components our national security apparatus needs to succeed. This makes America safer and more secure.
I am also thrilled to have helped author legislation included in this package that will supercharge American 5G networks with more resilient supply chains through Open RAN investments. This new technology will pave the way for American companies to enter the telecom market and compete.
As an author of both the CHIPS and Open RAN funding bills, I know these critical economic drivers will drive innovation and create American job opportunities for years to come.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the CHIPS and Science Act.
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