News Summary

New York business leaders are rallying behind the CHIPS and Science Act amid criticism from the Trump administration. The Act, instrumental in boosting semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S., has spurred significant investments and job creation in New York, particularly in upstate regions. With ongoing support from local officials and the Business Council, there are urgent calls to Congress to safeguard the Act and its associated benefits, including sustaining federal funding and tax credits crucial for the future of semiconductor development.

New York Business Leaders Urge Congress to Protect CHIPS and Science Act Amid Trump Administration Criticism

SYRACUSE, NY – Business leaders in New York have voiced strong support for the CHIPS and Science Act as the Trump administration has criticized it. The Act, which aims to strengthen semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S., is seen as pivotal for economic growth and job creation, especially in upstate New York.

Since its implementation in 2022, the CHIPS Act has catalyzed significant investments within the state. Notable projects include a $100 billion microchip megafactory in Onondaga County and a $315 million expansion of the Corning specialty glass plant in St. Lawrence County. These investments are part of a broader trend across New York, extending to new or expanding facilities throughout the Mohawk Valley, Capitol Region, Finger Lakes, and Western New York, creating thousands of jobs.

Heather C. Mulligan, president and CEO of the Business Council of New York, reported that Micron’s investment alone is projected to generate approximately 50,000 new jobs in central New York. In addition, the CHIPS Act has enabled a $40 million workforce development initiative in western New York and Syracuse that aims to create high-tech manufacturing positions. The growing demand for skilled workers in semiconductor manufacturing underscores the economic importance of these initiatives.

Despite these advancements, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson previously indicated that the CHIPS Act could be at risk during a visit to Syracuse, though he later retracted that statement. Additionally, the Trump administration has labeled the CHIPS Act as a “bad deal” without providing concrete proposals to amend it. Local officials and business leaders are urging Congress to resist any moves that may undermine the Act, which has already produced over $110 billion in investments nationwide.

The Business Council is advocating for the continuation of a 25% investment tax credit established under the CHIPS Act, due to expire in 2026. Local leaders believe that extending this credit is vital for sustaining the momentum of investments in semiconductor manufacturing, thereby supporting economic expansion and job creation throughout New York.

Garry Douglas, president of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the transformative potential of the Micron investment for northern New York. The impact of the CHIPS Act investments is expected to resonate across various local economies, providing quality jobs and enhancing community welfare. Albany County Executive Dan McCoy pointed out that the act supports roughly 50,000 jobs statewide, highlighting its significance in both economic and job growth contexts.

Republican County Executive Ryan McMahon has reiterated his commitment to the Micron investment amidst the administration’s criticisms. There is a general consensus among upstate New York’s congressional delegation, which spans both political parties, in favor of the CHIPS Act. Local Democratic representatives have also expressed strong opposition to any attempts at repealing the Act, underscoring its importance not only for job creation but also for national security considerations regarding semiconductor supply chains.

Concerns persist regarding potential threats to federal funding for semiconductor projects, particularly suggestions made by the Trump administration. Business leaders continue to stress the urgency of solidifying support for the CHIPS Act as a crucial element in the future growth of New York’s economy.

The CHIPS and Science Act represents a strategic investment opportunity for the United States as it seeks to reinforce its manufacturing capabilities in a globally competitive market. It remains to be seen how the ongoing discussions in Congress will shape its future, but the strong support from local business leaders indicates that its impact on New York’s economy and workforce will be a continuing focus.

As the situation develops, stakeholders remain vigilant, encouraging legislative support to maintain the strides made in semiconductor manufacturing and job creation across New York.

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Additional Resources

• Times Union: Business Council’s Plea to Lawmakers to Keep CHIPS Act
• Wikipedia: CHIPS and Science Act
• GovTech: New York Business Leaders Request Defense of CHIPS Act
• Google Search: CHIPS and Science Act
• CBS 6 Albany: New York Leaders Vow to Protect CHIPS Act Investments
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Semiconductor
• Spectrum News: Business Groups Urge Lawmakers to Protect CHIPS Act
• Google News: CHIPS Act New York