McMorris Rodgers’ COMPETE Act advances to full House for consideration

Bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) to ensure America’s leadership in emerging technologies on Sept. 9 received approval by the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee and now heads to the full chamber for consideration.

“This legislation will help ensure America leads the world in technological innovations well into the 21st Century,” Rep. McMorris Rodgers said. “I appreciate the leadership of all the Members and staff who have worked on this bill package.”

The committee approved the American Competitiveness on More Productive Emerging Tech Economy (COMPETE) Act, H.R. 8132, which Rep. McMorris Rodgers sponsored on Aug. 28 with lead cosponsor Bobby Rush (D-IL), to require the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Commerce Secretary to conduct studies and submit reports on the impact of artificial intelligence and other technologies on United States businesses conducting interstate commerce, according to the text of the bill.

If enacted, H.R. 8132 is a package of eight bills that would reduce regulatory and bureaucratic barriers to the development and deployment of next-generation technologies in specific areas, including the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, unmanned delivery services, and advanced quantum computing, among others, according to a bill summary provided by the congresswoman’s office.

H.R. 8132 also would ensure that U.S. supply chains remain secure.

“These are not Republican or Democrat solutions. They are American,” said McMorris Rodgers. “It’s imperative that we continue to work together for America’s global competitive edge in emerging technologies that will raise our standard of living, empower individuals, and create American jobs.”

Rep. Rush added, “Whether protecting our seniors from scam artists or protecting the public from disinformation, emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role, and the American COMPETE Act recognizes that.”