Joe Morelle: “The Build Back Better Act is an historic opportunity to reduce our Nation's healthcare costs, increase access to…”

“The Build Back Better Act is an historic opportunity to reduce our Nation's healthcare costs, increase access to childcare, support working families, and strengthen our economy. One item I would like to highlight is a provision to boost regional innovation. Since the 116th Congress, I have proudly sponsored the Innovation Centers Acceleration Act, legislation that would invest significant Federal dollars in our Nation's innovation efforts. Federal R&D as a percentage of GDP has fallen considerably since the mid-1960s, harming our productivity and global competitiveness, while opening the door for China to lead the world in innovation. I am incredibly proud that this bill includes $3.36 billion to create the regional innovation clusters envisioned in my proposal. Not only will this investment enhance our ability to be competitive, but it will create jobs at a time when they are needed the most. I encourage my colleagues to join me in proudly supporting and advancing this historic legislation, and I look forward to its passage.”