Soto Votes to Pass the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022
The final language included one bill in the base text and one amendment introduced by Rep. Soto to make non-profits like BRIDG eligible for manufacturing grants
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4346, the CHIPS and Science Act. This legislation makes historic investments to surge production of American-made semiconductors, tackle supply chain vulnerabilities, bolster America's scientific research and technological leadership, and strengthen America's economic and national security. The final bill includes Rep. Soto's amendment to allow non-profits to apply for semiconductor incentive program funding, which is key to allowing the non-profit Bridging the Innovation Development Gap to continue developing NeoCity's manufacturing capacity. It also includes the text of Rep. Soto's bill to establish blockchain and cryptocurrency position within the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Many of these provisions passed the House in February as part of the America COMPETES Act. Congressman Darren Soto (D-FL-09) released the following statement in response to the passage:
"I was happy to vote for the CHIPS and Science Act on the floor today. This bill will ensure the U.S. continues to lead in science and innovation while strengthening our competitiveness on the world stage. Additionally, it will provide the critical resources our community needs to continue growing on the path toward innovation and the creation of good, well-paying jobs.
"In a huge win for Central Florida, two of our most important priorities were included in the final version of the bill package.
"First, the inclusion of our amendment is great news for the emerging microelectronics and advanced manufacturing hub BRIDG as they and other non-profit agencies will now be able to apply for semiconductor incentive program funds. BRIDG will use this funding to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing, fortify the economy and national security, and reinforce America's chip supply chains — all within NeoCity.
"In addition, the inclusion of our bill establishes a new position within the Office of Science and Technology Policy to advise the president on matters related to blockchain and cryptocurrencies.
"As a co-chair of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus and a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I am proud to foster the policy needed to ensure innovation continues to take shape in our government and the CHIPS and Science Act will do just that."
The following amendment introduced by Rep. Soto was included in the bill text:
- CHIPS Funding to Non-Profits — Adds nonprofits to the definition of "covered entities" to expand the semiconductor incentive program to include nonprofit entities. It clarifies that non-profit entities like the 501(c)(3) facilities in NeoCity are also eligible for funding under the semiconductor incentive program.
Additionally,H.R. 8545, which was introduced by Rep. Soto and co-sponsored by Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC-13), was included in the base text of H.R. 4346. H.R. 8545 establishes a blockchain and cryptocurrency position within the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
###