[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 26 (Wednesday, February 9, 2022)]
[House]
[Page H1089]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               SUPPORT AMERICAN ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS

  (Ms. UNDERWOOD asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, investing in innovation is vital to 
strengthening America's economic and national security. That is why I 
supported the America COMPETES Act of 2022, which makes a historic 
investment in American technology and innovation.
  This bipartisan bill addresses 21st century challenges by 
turbocharging the domestic production of semiconductors, increasing the 
manufacturing workforce, and investing in STEM education. I am proud 
that my amendment, which creates partnerships with local industries to 
tailor STEM education to local economic needs, was included in the 
House version of the bill.
  This amendment will broaden the scope of STEM education and offer new 
opportunities in rural communities like much of my district. With 
transformative investments in some of Illinois' biggest industries, 
like manufacturing, education, energy, and biotechnology, the America 
COMPETES Act will strengthen the STEM pipeline in my district and 
across the country.
  I am proud of this bipartisan effort to support American economic 
competitiveness and urge my Senate colleagues to act quickly to send 
this legislation to the President's desk.

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