Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, announced on Apr. 8 a hearing titled "Computing Power and Competition: Examining the Semiconductor Ecosystem."
The hearing will focus on vulnerabilities in the semiconductor supply chain that could lead to economic disruptions or impact national security. The topic is important as semiconductors are critical components in everyday technology such as cars, computers, phones, household appliances, and tools essential for national defense.
Guthrie and Bilirakis said in a joint statement: "Semiconductors are foundational to modern life, powering everything from cars, computers, and phones to basic household appliances like toasters and refrigerators, along with critical tools essential for our national defense. Vulnerabilities in the semiconductor supply chain underscore the need for robust oversight of the semiconductor ecosystem to prevent significant economic disruptions and protect national security." They continued: "Especially as technologies such as artificial intelligence drive our future, we must ensure our supply chains are reliable and secure, supporting and expanding America’s technological competitive edge."
The subcommittee hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15 at 2:00 PM ET at 2123 Rayburn House Office Building. It will be open to both the public and press with a livestream available online.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee focuses on legislation concerning energy policy areas including health care access issues; environmental protection; telecommunications; consumer matters; energy innovation; broadband deployment; pharmaceutical pricing; according to its official website. The committee stands as one of the oldest standing committees in Congress—tracing its origins back to 1795 when it was formed as the Committee on Commerce and Manufactures according to its official website.
Broader discussions about securing U.S. technology supply chains have become increasingly relevant amid rapid advances in artificial intelligence. Observers may look for further legislative developments following this upcoming hearing.
