Bill would pay whistleblowers who expose illegal chip exports

What does this do?

HR 6322, the "Stop Stealing our Chips Act," sets up a whistleblower program at the Department of Commerce for reporting illegal exports of advanced chips and other export control violations. Tipsters can report anonymously through a secure online portal and receive 10% to 30% of funds collected if their tip leads to enforcement action with fines over $1 million. The bill also bars employer retaliation against whistleblowers and allows lawsuits for reinstatement, double back pay, and legal costs.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects companies exporting sensitive technology, especially semiconductor and AI chip manufacturers, and their employees. It also affects the Department of Commerce, which runs the program and enforces export laws.

Why does it matter?

The program is meant to help detect and deter illegal chip exports to countries seen as national security threats, though compliance officers and those who broke other laws to get information are excluded from rewards.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Funded by violator fines, not taxes
• Rewards are 10%-30% of funds collected
• Applies only to fines over $1 million