Bill > S2040

This bill establishes the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services (OICTS) within the Bureau of Industry and Security at the Department of Commerce. The office will be led by an Executive Director and will focus on identifying and preventing potential security risks associated with information and communications technology transactions, particularly those involving entities or jurisdictions of concern like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The bill creates a comprehensive review process for "covered transactions" involving connected vehicles and information technology, giving the Secretary of Commerce broad powers to investigate, mitigate, or prohibit transactions that pose an "undue risk" to national security. The legislation provides detailed definitions for key terms, establishes enforcement mechanisms with significant civil and criminal penalties for violations, and creates a technical advisory committee to support the office's work. The bill also mandates annual risk assessments by the Director of National Intelligence and ensures judicial review of decisions through the District of Columbia Circuit Court, with provisions to protect sensitive national security information during legal proceedings.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2040/all-info