That possibility will become reality if lawmakers do not pass CHIPS Plus.
The Risk
Once the undisputed leader in science and technology innovation, the United States’ position is in doubt today. That’s why Congress must pass CHIPS Plus. If it doesn’t, important and timely scientific initiatives will be left behind, and lawmakers will be broadcasting to the world that we’re willing to pass the baton to China.
The Urgency
The U.S. has fallen behind China and other countries in the innovation investment race.
- Federal investment in the science and technology needed to spark innovations crucial to the future of the U.S. economy and national security has fallen to 0.7% of our GDP today compared to 1.9% in 1964.
- The U.S.’s share of global R&D spending declined 2% between 2010 and 2019, while China’s share increased 7%.
- China is on track to exceed the U.S. in science and technology investment by 2030.
The Opportunity
Finalizing CHIPS Plus would propel U.S. innovation and the economy for years to come.
Both parties and the broader public back essential investments that included in any competitiveness bill. These include funding and increased emphases at the National Science Foundation on Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), as well as expanding domestic semiconductor production, creating new regional technology hubs, refurbishing America’s crumbling science and technology infrastructure, building an expansive and inclusive STEM workforce, and producing outstanding educators by authorizing the National Science Corps program to establish a nationwide community of expert STEM teachers.
Let’s Get It Done
Lawmakers are running out of time to pass this once-in-a-generation investment in science and technology ahead of the midterm elections. If Congress fails to act, not only will years of diligent work be wasted, but we will be well on the path to ceding our position as a global leader in innovation and technology to China.
We’ve waited far too long for lawmakers to secure the resources we need to stay globally competitive. The time to act is now.
The Science Community Agrees
The Science & Technology Action Committee isn’t alone in its urgent call on Congress to pass the competitiveness bill. It joined the Federation of American Scientists and more than 30 other of America’s leading science, engineering, and higher education institutions in recently sending a letter urging Congress to pass a bipartisan agreement on the USICA and America COMPETES Act by the end of July.