Congress approves bill to boost US production of computer chips; Sullivan votes no.
Congress on Thursday handed a $280 billion monthly bill to subsidize domestic production of pc chips and devote in science and technological know-how innovation.
Alaska’s sole vote on the bill was U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan’s. He voted no. His workplace reported he didn’t have time this week for an interview on the subject.
Laptop or computer chips are used in every thing from cell phones and cars to airplanes and weapons units.
In a recent speech on the Senate ground, Sullivan said the monthly bill discriminates towards Alaska Native corporations. The 1,054-webpage semiconductor monthly bill describes roles for tribal governments and tribal colleges. It doesn’t specially mention Alaska Indigenous corporations.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski was absent for the vote. She tested good for COVID not too long ago and was isolating in Alaska this 7 days. She issued a statement indicating she would have voted yes.
“This legislation is well timed and vital to addressing one particular of the greatest offer chain troubles we’ve viewed in the course of the COVID pandemic,” her statement states. “By giving incentives and investments to increase domestic defense, we are taking necessary methods to enhance U.S. economic expansion, prevent foreseeable future supply shocks and price raises, and protect nationwide security.”
The vote in the Senate was 64-33.
In the Residence, the monthly bill also handed with bipartisan assist. Alaska has not had a representative there given that the demise of Congressman Don Youthful in March.
