Senate passes expansive technology research bill to help US compete with China. The Innovation and Competition Act, aimed at reinvigorating America's technological footprint to counter China, passed the Senate on Tuesday in a 68-to-32 vote after some drama a few weeks ago, including a flurry of last-minute amendments and an all-nighter of negotiations. The legislation now heads to the House, where it faces a competing bill and somewhat murky future. Ref. USAToday.