CHIPS and Science Act (2022)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (Public Law 117–167)

2) Why It Was Done
The Act was passed to strengthen U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, and boost scientific research and innovation competitiveness—particularly against China.

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
While the U.S. had prior tech and research funding laws, no comprehensive legislation addressed the supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by the global chip shortage during COVID-19.

4) Overreach or Proper Role?
Supporters see it as vital for national security and economic resilience. Critics argue it amounts to corporate subsidies and could distort markets.

5) Who or What It Controls

• Semiconductor companies (receive subsidies and tax incentives to build U.S. fabs)
• Federal agencies (NSF, DOE, NIST, NASA) (expanded research programs)
• Universities and labs (funding for STEM education and innovation)
• Global supply chains (shifts production and investment back to U.S.)

6) Key Sections / Citations

• $52 billion for domestic semiconductor manufacturing and research
• 25% investment tax credit for semiconductor manufacturing
• Funding boosts for NSF, NIST, DOE research programs
• Emphasis on STEM workforce development

7) Recent Changes or Live Controversies

• Implementation underway with multi-billion-dollar awards to U.S. chipmakers (Intel, TSMC, Micron)
• Ongoing debates about guardrails restricting funds for expansion in China
• Questions remain about long-term global competitiveness

8) Official Sources

• Congress.gov – CHIPS and Science Act
• White House – CHIPS and Science Act Overview
• Department of Commerce – CHIPS Program Office

• Technology
• Semiconductors
• Science
• Research
• Manufacturing