S. 3181In committeeSecurity & foreign affairs
Former Pentagon officials could lose security clearances for lobbying Chinese military firms
Data as of July 11, 2026
Senate bill S 3181 would revoke security clearances from ex-Pentagon staff and retired military who lobby for Chinese military-linked companies.45-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
Senate bill S 3181 would strip security clearances from former Defense Department employees and retired or separated military members who lobby for companies the Defense Department has labeled as Chinese military companies and that also appear on a Treasury Department watchlist. The Defense Secretary may grant exceptions lasting up to 180 days if national security requires it, but must notify Congress when doing so.
Who does it affect?
The bill targets two groups: former civilian Defense Department employees such as analysts, managers, or contractors, and retired or separated military members such as former generals or officers. Everyday Americans are not directly affected by this legislation.
Why does it matter?
Removing clearance access could reduce the risk that sensitive government knowledge is used to benefit Chinese military-linked businesses. The bill also raises questions about how far the government can restrict the private-sector activities of former public servants.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee — You are here
- Senate vote
- House
- President's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the President.
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Official title
REVOKE Act
- Introduced:
- November 18, 2025
- Latest action:
- November 18, 2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.