On Tuesday, Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) unveiled a proposal to eliminate the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) requirements and return to the initial goals of the chips and science legislation.
Cotton has introduced the Semiconductors and Science (DIPSS) Act, aiming to dismantle the ideological policies associated with the current law. This bill seeks to enhance American high-tech and semiconductor manufacturing by removing DEI mandates.
“The U.S. must work rapidly to develop a STEM workforce. Our priorities should center on excellence and innovation rather than cumbersome and divisive DEI policies,” Cotton stated.
Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) are co-sponsoring the DIPSS bill.
This legislation proposes to eliminate numerous DEI provisions, including:
- Cutting redundant scientific collaboration programs.
- Disposing of outreach requirements for underrepresented communities.
- Removing the provisions aimed at recruiting STEM educators related to DEI for the National STEM Teacher Division.
- Dropping diversity requirements for participation in national networks for microelectronics education.
- Altering diversity considerations within the STEM Research Capacity Program and Technology Research Program.
- Eliminating the Chief Diversity Officer position at the National Science Foundation.
- Ceasing collection of data on teacher demographics.
In November 2024, Matt Cole, CEO of Strive Asset Management, along with Chris Nicholson, criticized several shortcomings of the Chips Act, particularly regarding its DEI focus.
Yet, shortly afterward, Intel announced a halt to its $20 billion project in Columbus. Similarly, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported delays in production at its second Arizona facility. Additionally, Samsung postponed operations at its Texas Fab due to uncertainties over further funding from the Chips Act.
This isn’t typically how businesses respond to significant subsidies. The underlying frustration appears to stem from the DEI mandates included in the chips policy.
Cotton remarked, “My bill ensures that all STEM talent has equal opportunities based on merit, inviting everyone with talent to contribute.”
