Bill would let export-security agency fast-track hiring of tech experts
In markupH.R. 7003Latest action
Sponsor: Jefferson Shreve · Representative · IN
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: BIS STRENGTH Act
119th Congress
Topics: Government & democracy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The bill lets BIS bypass normal civil service rules to hire up to 25 outside experts at senior-level pay.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The BIS STRENGTH Act would let the Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security skip standard federal hiring rules to directly recruit outside experts in fields like semiconductors and advanced technology. These hires would receive competitive pay similar to senior federal executives, but no more than 25 could serve at once, each for up to five years (with a possible one-year extension), and total pay could not exceed the vice president's salary. The special hiring authority would expire after five years unless renewed.
Who does it affect?
The Bureau of Industry and Security and job applicants with specialized technical expertise are directly affected; businesses relying on export control decisions are indirectly affected.
Why does it matter?
Bypassing standard civil service hiring rules could speed staffing but reduces the usual competitive process protections, requiring annual reports to Congress to track outcomes.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Introduced in House” text of Jan 9, 2026.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 9, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Apr 22, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 42 - 2.