Mon, April 29th 2024 at 12:56 PMU.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, discussed the growth of the state's tech industry, the impact of the CHIPS Act on national security and the economy, and the need for government policies that support innovation in an interview with "Tech This Out."
Cornyn, who co-authored the CHIPS Act, said the legislation was motivated by national security concerns. He noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, critical supplies like personal protective equipment were manufactured primarily in China, underscoring the need for secure domestic supply chains. Cornyn said the CHIPS Act will also benefit tech startups by providing access to essential components. However, he acknowledged that the industry's growth has put strains on the workforce, requiring universities and community colleges to train more workers to meet demand.