CHIPS Act to create thousands of good-paying jobs in Ohio

Legislation will boost semiconductor production, lowering the cost of every day goods

August 9, 2022

COLUMBUS– Ohio House Democrats today celebrated the signing of the CHIPS and Science Act, legislation to increase the production of semiconductors in the United States. The CHIPS Act will lower costs on every day goods from cars to dishwashers, create good-paying jobs in the U.S., and improve our national security by building more resilient American supply chains.

The CHIPS Act is an integral component of Intel’s investment in central Ohio. In January 2022, Intel announced it would invest at least $20 billion to build two semiconductor factories in Licking County. The company’s investment could grow to up to $100 billion, but only if the CHIPS Act was signed into law. Intel’s $20 billion project would create 7,000 construction jobs and an additional 3,000 permanent jobs.

“The CHIPS Act will help restore America as a global leader in the manufacturing industry,” said Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington). “This legislation gives American companies and workers the tools they need to compete in the world economy, brings thousands of good paying jobs to Ohio, and reduces costs for families. I am proud that the CHIPS Act is a step towards building an Ohio economy that works for everyone.”

The CHIPS Act passed the House of Representatives by a 243-187 vote, and the Senate by a 64-33. All Democrats voted in favor of the bill, while 220 Republicans, including Ohio Republicans Reps. Jim Jordan, Warren Davidson, Brad Wenstrup and Bob Latta, voted no.

In November 2021, State Reps. Lisa Sobecki (D-Toledo) and Jeff Crossman (D-Parma) introduced House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 38, urging Congress to address the shortage of semiconductors in the short-term, and to encourage the domestic production of semiconductors in the long-term. The resolution called for Congress to take several measures to address the shortage, including passing the CHIPS Act.

“Increasing domestic production of semiconductors solves a critical need for a variety of American industries and improves America’s national security,” said Rep. Sobecki. “Toledo is home to Jeep and other emerging industries that rely on semiconductors. Thanks to Democratic leadership in D.C., our workers and businesses will be better equipped to compete with other countries.”

“Rep. Sobecki and I recognized the strategic value in bringing these jobs back to Ohio and how important it is in the long term to produce these essential components to keep our economy moving. The State of Ohio has deep ties to the manufacturing industry, and we will be pleased to see this legislation’s immediate effect on Ohioans and their families across the state,” Rep. Crossman.