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Technology and Innovation

The First Congressional District is home to some of our country's most innovative companies. The district includes technology leaders like Intel, which developed the world's first microprocessor more than 40 years ago, Nike, a trailblazer in footwear innovation, and countless innovative small businesses. Companies in the First District are continually developing new and exciting products. As a Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology I will do all I can to partner with our local innovators—in the tech sector and beyond—to support their efforts and advance projects that benefit our communities.

I helped negotiate and pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which will grow U.S. leadership, strengthen our scientific enterprise, bolster research and development, grow our domestic semiconductor manufacturing base, and onshore critical supply chains. Importantly, it will also support workers and create many quality jobs in Oregon and across the country.

In 2013 I founded and now co-chair the bipartisan STEAM Caucus  (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) to promote creativity and innovation by integrating art and design into STEM programs. I frequently meet with business leaders and innovators and hear about the need for collaborative employees who can communicate well and come up with new ideas and new ways to solve problems. Additionally, STEAM education builds a more inclusive environment that supports a greater diversity of students while fostering an entrepreneurial approach that strengthens our workforce. The CHIPS and Science Act signed into law by President Biden included my legislation to expand access to STEAM education programs for all students.

Efforts to dismiss and disrespect science will have chilling consequences for every person who benefits from clean air and clean water, particularly and disproportionately young children, seniors, and the health-impaired. As a member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I am standing up for science and research and fighting against efforts to undercut scientific integrity.

Net Neutrality and Broadband Access

Net neutrality is about keeping the Internet open and fair for everyone. I'm fighting in Congress to protect net neutrality, and I'll continue to urge the Federal Communications Commission to maintain Title II protections and a level playing field for consumers, innovators, and small businesses. Please know that I will continue to advocate for an open Internet because having an open Internet is not a luxury or a privilege, but a necessity for everyday life.

Broadband is essential infrastructure, but too many people lack access. Just like net neutrality, expanding broadband connectivity across the country is about equity. In the last Congress we recognized the overdue need to make investments in broadband through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, with millions of dollars coming to Oregon. Much of this funding targets development in rural areas, as well as important funding to promote digital inclusion and equity for communities that lack the skills, technologies, and support needed to take advantage of broadband connections. We also created the Affordable Connectivity Benefit to help more for low-income Americans access the connections they need. As those funds are disbursed, we must recognize that digital equity will be achieved when people have broadband, devices, and digital literacy. I’m committed to working with state and local partners to close existing gaps for people of color, working families, and Oregonians living in rural communities.

To see if you are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program, make sure to visit https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/