Summary
Creates rules for security features on advanced computer chips sent to other countries to make sure they are not stolen or used for bad things.
What problem does this solve?
Advanced computer chips made in the U.S. could be stolen or used by enemies if they are sent to other countries. This bill adds security tools, like location tracking, to these chips to stop them from being misused and protect national security.
Who does this affect?
- Semiconductor and computer hardware manufacturers
- Technology exporters
- Foreign governments and companies receiving U.S. technology
What does this bill do?
Requires location tracking on exported chips
Mandates that certain advanced computer chips must have security features that can verify their location before they are sent to another country.
Mandates reporting of lost or stolen chips
Requires any company that sends these chips abroad to immediately tell the government if they learn a chip is in the wrong place, with the wrong user, or has been messed with.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 4(b)(1)
Header:
Development of secondary requirements for chip security mechanisms
Directs study of new security tools
Orders the Secretary of Commerce to study what other security tools could be added to chips to stop them from being used for bad things.
Gives government power to track chips
Allows the Secretary of Commerce to check the ownership and location of exported chips and keep a record of where they are and who is using them.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 4(d)
Header:
Annual assessment and report on new chip security mechanisms
Requires yearly review of security technology
Requires the Secretary of Commerce to review new chip security technologies each year for three years and report to Congress on whether the rules should be updated.
What is the real world impact?
•
Protects advanced U.S. technology
Prevents advanced computer chips, which are key for things like artificial intelligence, from being stolen or used by countries or groups that could harm the United States.
•
Strengthens alliances
Allows the U.S. to safely share powerful computing technology with friendly countries, which helps build stronger relationships and supports shared research goals.
•
Could increase costs for tech companies
Forces companies to add new security hardware and software to their products, which could be expensive and complicated. These costs might be passed on to customers, making U.S. technology more expensive.
When does this start?
This bill sets several deadlines for studying and adding security features to computer chips.
Initial security requirement
Within 180 days of the bill becoming law, all covered computer chips must have location verification before being exported.
Reporting requirement
Within 180 days of the bill becoming law, companies must begin reporting any lost, stolen, or tampered-with chips.
Security assessment deadline
Within one year of the bill becoming law, the Secretary of Commerce must complete a study on what extra security tools should be added to chips.
Report to congress
Within one year of the bill becoming law, the Secretary of Commerce must send a report to Congress with the results of the security assessment.
Implementation of new security rules
Within two years after the security assessment is finished, any new required security tools must be added to exported chips.