Chair frames committee agenda around AI, semiconductors and supply chains

The chair opened the committee hearing by saying the panel would consider a package of bills designed to "promote technological advances" and help the United States retain leadership in industries vital to the economy and national security.

In an opening statement, the chair said the rise of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies requires U.S. action to protect competitiveness and security. "Today, we will examine several pieces of legislation that promote technological advances and help ensure America continues to lead in industries that are critical to both our economy and our national security," the chair said.

The chair emphasized supply-chain and manufacturing resilience, warning that the country "currently risks falling behind our competitors in areas such as semiconductors," and cited a memory chip shortage that is "significantly impacting numerous industries." To respond, the chair said the committee must foster innovation domestically: "We must respond by fostering innovation here at home, supporting research and development, and creating an environment where American companies can continue to compete and succeed." The chair listed quantum computing, robotics, artificial intelligence and bio-manufacturing as among the technologies the legislation targets.

The chair characterized the measures before the committee as bipartisan priorities and said colleagues on both sides of the aisle could agree on the need to move the bills "swiftly through the committee process." The opening statement concluded with the chair thanking the witnesses for appearing.

No formal motions or votes were recorded in the opening remarks; the statement served to set the committee's agenda and to introduce the topics and bills to be examined in the hearing.