SALEM, Ore – Tonight at 5:00 PM, the Joint Committee on Semiconductors will hold its first hearing on Senate Bill 4 after weeks of public testimony on the underlying policies. This bipartisan bill represents the first step the Legislature will take this session on securing the future of Oregon’s semiconductor economy.
Senate Bill 4 commits $200 million for grants and loans to qualifying businesses for the purpose of allowing those businesses to apply to the federal government for additional financial support made available through the CHIPS and Science Act.
The Federal CHIPS and Science Act committed $52 billion to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing and the federal government will soon be accepting applications for these funds.
The combination of Oregon’s support and the federal CHIPS Act funds would create a once-in-a-generation opportunity to attract and grow the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industry in Oregon.
“We are acting with an extraordinary sense of urgency to supercharge Oregon’s semiconductor industry, bring new jobs and money to our state, and build a better future for every Oregonian,” said co-chair Senator Janeen Sollman (D-Hillsboro). “We look forward to continuing the conversation about this first step and the work we will do later in session to maintain Oregon’s position as a global leader in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing.”
“This bill is an important first step in ensuring Oregon’s semiconductor industry can capitalize on the opportunity to receive CHIPS Act funding. Our next step needs to be bold and needs to provide more support for our job creators. Not only do these manufacturing jobs provide high wages, but we also know that it is critical for national security,” said co-vice chair Senator Tim Knopp (R-Bend).
WHO: Joint Committee on Semiconductors
WHAT: Discussion of Senate Bill 4
WHERE: Hearing Room F, Oregon State Capitol
WHEN: 5:00 PM, February 22, 2023
