Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB4568

Introduced
6/18/24  

Caption

CHIPS Improvement Act

Impact

The passage of SB4568 would significantly change the landscape of federal funding requirements, particularly for organizations seeking grants under the CHIPS and R&D Acts. It would result in the removal of essential policies that support workforce diversity and opportunities for underrepresented populations in technology and science. This could lead to a less inclusive environment in these fields, as institutions may no longer feel compelled to prioritize diversity and equity in hiring or outreach efforts.

Summary

SB4568, known as the CHIPS Improvement Act, proposes considerable amendments to the existing CHIPS Act of 2022 and the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act. The main thrust of SB4568 is to repeal several provisions that require diversity, inclusion, and educational outreach for underrepresented communities. Notably, it seeks to eliminate requirements related to promoting participation of women and minorities in STEM fields and to dismantle positions and programs aimed at addressing cultural barriers in academic and federal workforces.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate, as proponents argue it simplifies bureaucratic processes and reduces federal mandates that could hinder innovation and development. Critics, however, contend that by repealing these provisions, the bill sacrifices the very principles of diversity and inclusion that many advocates believe are crucial for fostering a thriving and innovative workforce. The potential exclusion of marginalized groups from STEM and federal programs could exacerbate existing inequalities and limit the progress toward a more equitable academic landscape.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SB1745

Dismantling Ideological Policies for Semiconductors and Science Act

US SB4657

CHIPS Training in America Act of 2024

US HB3560

National Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Research and Development Act

US HB6213

National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act

US SB4394

NSF AI Education Act of 2024

US HB9402

NSF AI Education Act of 2024

US HB9595

FIT Procurement Act Federal Improvement in Technology Procurement Act

US HB9170

Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act

US HB8788

Fisheries Improvement and Seafood Health Act of 2024

US HB5893

Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Similar Bills

US SB1745

Dismantling Ideological Policies for Semiconductors and Science Act

US SB4236

AI Grand Challenges Act of 2024

US HB3560

National Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Research and Development Act

US HB7685

IMPACT Act Innovative Mitigation Partnerships for Asphalt and Concrete Technologies Act

US HB9771

BUILT Act Building and Upgrading Infrastructure for the Long Term Act

US HB3054

RESEARCHER Act Relieving Economic Strain to Enhance American Resilience and Competitiveness in Higher Education and Research Act

US HB9134

Improving Mentorship in STEM Higher Education Act

US HB1534

Innovative Mitigation Partnerships for Asphalt and Concrete Technologies Act or the IMPACT ActThis bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a temporary program that supports advanced production of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt.Specifically, the program must support research, development, and commercial application of production processes for low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt that are more cost-effective, durable, or resource-efficient (i.e., advanced production). The program must particularly focus on carbon capture technologies, energy-efficient processes, research involving novel materials, and other specified technologies and innovative processes.DOE must select entities to implement relevant demonstration projects; eligible entities include government, nonprofit, educational, and private sector entities. DOE may terminate these projects if it determines that sufficient amounts of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt that are produced through advanced production are commercially available at reasonable prices.The program terminates seven years after the bill is enacted.