Daines Statement on Bipartisan Package to Invest in R&d, Win the Race Against China Signed Into Law

Press Release

U.S. Senator Steve Daines today issued the following statement after the "Chips and Science Act," a legislative package formerly known as the "U.S. Innovation and Competition Act" and the "Endless Frontiers Act," was signed into law. The legislation, which includes three Daines bills, will help boost America's national security by investing in innovation and semiconductor manufacturing.

"This is a historic investment in American science and technology that will reinforce the United States' position on the global stage. Boosting American semiconductor production, innovation, STEM education and R&D will help us win the race against China, and I'm glad to see this important bill signed into law," Daines said.

In 1990, the U.S. accounted for 37% of global semiconductor fabrication capacity. By 2020 our share had fallen to 12%. In contrast, China had no capacity to produce semiconductors in 1990, but by 2020 it had nearly 13% of production. The Chinese share of global manufacturing is projected to reach 24% by 2030, which would make it the world leader.

This bill will:

Boost national security by ensuring the U.S. stays on the cutting edge of semiconductor research, design and manufacturing
Invest in American innovation and technology to ensure the U.S. maintains its competitive edge over China
Promote high paying U.S. technology and manufacturing jobs
The bill includes Daines' "FABS Act," "Endless Frontier Act," and "National Science, Innovation and Technology Strategy Act." It also includes funding for "Chips for America Act" which Senator Daines championed in the NDAA.

Semiconductors are used in many everyday items including cars, televisions, phones, refrigerators, radios and computers as well as advanced technologies important for our national security.

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