Today: 16 March 2025
9 June 2021
2 mins read

US Senate passes bill to counter China

The bill still needs to pass the House before going to President Joe Biden’s desk….reports Asian Lite News

US Senate has passed bipartisan legislation aimed at countering China’s growing influence by investing over USD 200 billion in American technology, science and research.

The final vote was 68-32. Independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont was the only member of the Democratic caucus to vote against the bill. Nineteen Senate Republicans joined Democrats voting in favour of the bill, CNN reported.

The bill still needs to pass the House before going to President Joe Biden’s desk.

The sweeping legislation — called the US Innovation and Competition Act — aims to confront China’s influence on multiple fronts and “will supercharge American innovation and preserve our competitive edge for generations to come,” said Majority Leader Chuck Schumer who co-wrote the bill.

Schumer described the vote as a necessary step to keep America in the game against countries such as China, and a significant legislative accomplishment after months of behind-the-scenes talks.

The bill was delayed for a long time as Republicans significantly obstructed its passage amid frustration over getting additional amendment votes.

ALSO READ: Harris to target immigration in first foreign visit as VP

The bill builds off a Schumer last year proposal with Senator Todd Young to provide USD 120 billion for activities at the National Science Foundation, Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

It would also create a new directorate of technology and innovation at the National Science Foundation.

In addition to the Young-Schumer bill at its core, the legislation will provide USD 52 billion for semiconductor provisions, folds in a separate China-specific bill that passed out of the Foreign Relations Committee in a 21-1 vote and includes provisions cracking down on the reliance on Chinese companies and technology.

The legislation also requires that the iron, steel, manufactured products and construction materials used in federally funded infrastructure projects are produced in the United States.

The bill would also codify the Made in America office that Biden created earlier this year by executive order.

The bill calls for investing $10 billion over five years to the Department of Commerce to create regional tech hub programs, a third of which would have to be located in rural areas. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Don’t come to US, Harris tells Guatemalan migrants
Previous Story

Protest in London Over Rights Abuses at Gilgit Baltistan & POJK

Next Story

Saudi, US forces begin ‘Falcon Claws 4’ exercise

Latest from -Top News

Palestinians Seek Help to End Israeli Siege 

The Palestinian Ministry of National Economy: “We remind the entire world that Israel is refusing to allow the entry of basic health and humanitarian needs, especially water, electricity, and food, to the

Dubai Glows with Ramadan Spirit

The stunning displays are a key highlight of the second edition of the #RamadanInDubai campaign. Dubai has transformed into a dazzling spectacle of light and artistry in celebration of Ramadan, with grand

UAE Celebrates Emirati Children’s Day

The United Arab Emirates is celebrating Emirati Children’s Day today, reaffirming its dedication to nurturing a safe and supportive environment for the nation’s children. This annual occasion highlights the UAE’s commitment to

US pullback on Gaza plan welcomed 

The Hamas movement also responded positively, stating that the reversal was a welcome move….reports Asian Lite News Palestinian, Jordanian, and Egyptian officials have welcomed US President Donald Trump’s decision to abandon his

Can AI Transform the Future of India-GCC Ties? 

One area where AI can significantly enhance India-GCC cooperation is in the field of supply chain management and logistics. …writes Sudhanshu Kumar and Rashi Randev  Recently, a few months back, the External
Go toTop

Don't Miss

US comes up empty-handed as it hosts meeting on Ukraine

Amidst a waiting period for Congress to approve additional funds

India-US 2+2 dialogue to be held in November

Secretary of State Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin will