Senate debates sweeping Chinese competitiveness bill

The Senate on Tuesday debated approving bipartisan legislation that would invest billions to put the U.S. on more even footing with China on a range of emerging technology issues, including addressing the semiconductor shortage and funding critical research.

The bill still faces pushback from a number of Senate Republicans who argue it is not strong enough to confront China, though the level of opposition is unlikely to derail the package, which will need to pass the House before it can be sent to President Biden’s desk. Voting in the Senate began Tuesday afternoon.

Want to know more details of exactly what is included in the almost 1,500 page bill? Here is a breakdown of five key issues addressed in the massive bipartisan bill, including semiconductor funding, cybersecurity measures, and prioritization of research into emerging technologies.