Bill > HR6576

This bill, known as the SAFE LiDAR Act, aims to restrict the use of light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology developed by foreign adversaries, specifically naming the People's Republic of China, the Russian Federation, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea as "foreign adversary countries." LiDAR is a crucial technology for advancements in autonomous vehicles, defense systems, and critical infrastructure. The bill prohibits "covered persons" (entities involved in commerce related to LiDAR technology or products that use it) and critical infrastructure operators or federal government entities from using this "covered foreign adversary light detection and ranging technology" in the United States, with phased-in effective dates. However, the Secretary of Commerce can grant waivers if it's in the national interest, would cause undue hardship, or is necessary to avoid critical function cessation, provided mitigation plans are in place. Certain exemptions exist for government testing, academic research, products manufactured and exported from the U.S., and specific international transportation services. The bill also prohibits new joint ventures, licensing agreements, or technology partnerships with companies that produce this technology for use in the U.S., though exceptions are made for terminating adversary affiliations or fulfilling pre-existing agreements not intended to circumvent the Act. Enforcement includes civil penalties and injunctive relief, and the Secretary of Commerce is tasked with establishing programs to assist with compliance, review waiver requests, and form a national security task force. The bill also mandates annual reporting to Congress on enforcement actions, waivers, emerging threats, and efforts by foreign adversaries to circumvent the Act.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6576/all-info