Young’s Endless Frontier Act Clears the Senate Committee on Commerce

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young’s (R-Ind.) bill to out-compete China on innovation in key emerging technology areas critical to our national security was approved by a strong bipartisan vote of 24-4 following a markup at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. The bipartisan Endless Frontier Act, which was reintroduced in April, now heads to the Senate floor for a vote.

“I’m proud that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle were in agreement today that we face a unique opportunity in our race with China, and one of the best ways to beat our biggest geopolitical foe is the Endless Frontier Act. This bill is our chance to improve how our country innovates and develops new technologies to out-compete the Chinese Communist Party. If America is to lead the world in the 21st century, we have to go on offense by passing my Endless Frontier Act when it comes to the floor.

“However, I am disappointed that an amendment was adopted to divert significant funding away from the NSF Tech Directorate in favor of a program outside of the Committee’s jurisdiction thereby diluting the effectiveness of the Directorate. I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure the final product lives up to its billing – a bold investment in research, education, technology transfer, and the core strengths of the U.S. innovation ecosystem. The country that wins the race in key technologies will be the superpower of the future. We cannot afford to lose that race,” said Senator Young.

During today’s markup, Senator Young noted the Chinese Communist Party is working to take advantage of the pandemic to increase its influence over the world’s economy. To view his opening remarks, click here.