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WASHINGTON, DC—Representatives Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) and Jake Ellzey (TX-6) today introduced the bipartisan Microelectronics Research for Energy Innovation Act (Micro Act) that would empower the Department of Energy to drive up research and development of microelectronics.

“Manufacturing microelectronics has proven an essential industry in the push to establish a 21st century economy,” Congressman Tonko said. “Investing in this innovative technology will not only spur economic growth, it will strengthen our global competitiveness, domestic supply chain and national security. With the global semiconductor shortage—spurred on by the COVID-19 crisis—investing in microelectronics is more critical than ever. My legislation seizes on the opportunity to ensure our nation is a global leader in this growing industry. I urge my colleagues to join in support of this commonsense bill, and will continue pushing for legislation that secures our strong economic and technological future.”

“Today, I had the great honor to be an original co-sponsor of the Microelectronics Research for Energy Innovation Act,” Rep. Ellzey said. “This bill will leverage the Department of Energy’s world-leading research and development capabilities to accelerate U.S. leadership in the microelectronics industry. As our economy becomes more dependent on microchips, this legislation will take key steps in revitalizing our domestic production base and spurring innovation. It is critical that the U.S. leads in microelectronics in all aspects, from design to fabrication. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with my colleague Paul Tonko, of New York, on this much needed investment.”

Tonko is helping lead the charge in Congress to shore up American supply chains. Earlier this year, he called on the Biden Administration to invest in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing under the CHIPS for America Act.

The Microelectronics Research for Energy Innovation Act:

• Requires the DOE to establish a program on the development, demonstration, and commercial application of microelectronics to drive the nation’s global competitiveness in the field of microelectronics.
• Establishes up to four Microelectronics Science Research Centers to conduct mission driven research to address foundational challenges in the design, development, and fabrication of microelectronics and to facilitate the translation of research results to industry.

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