United States Innovation and Competition Act of 2021

United States Innovation and Competition Act of 2021

This bill addresses U.S. technology and communications, foreign relations and national security, domestic manufacturing, education, trade, and other matters.

Among other provisions, the bill

• provides funding for FY2022-FY2026 to support U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, research and development, and supply chain security;
• provides funding for wireless supply chain innovation;
• establishes a Directorate for Technology and Innovation in the National Science Foundation;
• extends through 2025 the authority of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to lease its non-excess real property and related personal property;
• authorizes various programs and policies related to space exploration;
• authorizes various international affairs programs and activities, including foreign assistance for the Indo-Pacific region;
• requires federal infrastructure programs to provide for the use of materials produced in the United States;
• imposes sanctions on China for cybersecurity and human rights abuses;
• requires the Department of Health and Human Services to consider national security risks associated with sensitive genetic information;
• includes initiatives related to elementary and secondary education, including those to increase computer science education;
• contains provisions related to higher education, including those reauthorizing through FY2027 international education programs and addressing China's influence on institutions of higher education;
• modifies and expands the schedule for graduated merger filing fees;
• prohibits federal funding for the Wuhan Institute of Virology;
• requires the U.S. Trade Representative to take certain actions related to digital trade and censorship practices; and
• extends through 2027 the Generalized System of Preferences.

The United States Innovation and Competition Act of 2021, also known as Bill 117 HR 4521, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of boosting American competitiveness in key technology and innovation sectors. The bill focuses on increasing investments in research and development, promoting domestic manufacturing, and enhancing the country's technological capabilities.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of the Directorate for Technology and Innovation within the National Science Foundation. This new directorate will receive significant funding to support research and development in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, the bill includes measures to strengthen supply chains for critical technologies and increase funding for programs that support domestic manufacturing. It also aims to enhance cybersecurity measures to protect American companies and institutions from cyber threats. The United States Innovation and Competition Act of 2021 has received bipartisan support in Congress, with lawmakers from both parties recognizing the importance of investing in technology and innovation to maintain America's competitive edge in the global economy. The bill is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring that the United States remains a leader in key technology sectors and continues to drive innovation and economic growth.