CMT Hearing: Computing Power and Competition: Examining the Semiconductor Ecosystem

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing on April 8, 2026, titled "Computing Power and Competition: Examining the Semiconductor Ecosystem." The hearing focused on the critical role of semiconductors in the U.S. economy, national security, and technological leadership, especially in the context of competition with China. Key procurement-related discussions included the impact and implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act, which allocated $50 billion for domestic semiconductor manufacturing and $11 billion for research and development. Witnesses from Intel and industry groups highlighted ongoing investments exceeding $100 billion in U.S. facilities and emphasized the need for extending the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Credit (AMIC) and reforming tariff policies to maintain competitiveness. Concerns were raised about the Trump administration's cuts to semiconductor program staffing, the shutdown of NatCast (a nonprofit managing R&D funds), and the potential risks of supply chain vulnerabilities, including reliance on critical materials from China and geopolitical risks related to Taiwan. Workforce development and permitting reform were also discussed as essential to scaling domestic semiconductor manufacturing. The hearing included calls for congressional oversight to ensure transparency and effective use of funds, as well as policy actions to protect intellectual property and support the semiconductor ecosystem's resilience amid rising AI-driven demand.