Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas has written an op-ed in the Dallas Morning News highlighting bipartisan efforts to bring microchip manufacturing jobs to Texas. The legislation, co-authored with Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona, aims to streamline the approval process for microchip manufacturing plants. It received strong bipartisan support and was signed into law by President Joe Biden.

In his op-ed, Cruz stated: “The issues facing our country are significant, but so are the opportunities. The Kelly-Cruz legislation shows what is possible when we work together to deliver results for Texans."

The "Kelly-Cruz Building Chips in America Act" intends to ensure that advanced microchips are manufactured within the United States. Initially introduced by Sen. Kelly, the bill underwent revisions led by Cruz to create a level playing field among states vying for new microchip facilities.

Cruz emphasized collaboration across party lines and praised Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo's endorsement of their amendment, which she said would help expedite the process as a national security imperative.

He further noted that while he supported certain aspects of semiconductor manufacturing incentives, he opposed elements of the 2022 Chips and Science Act due to concerns over corporate welfare.

Despite differing views on some policies, Cruz remains committed to advocating for Texas' fair share of federal funding and easing regulatory burdens to encourage job creation in the state.