New Commerce office would vet foreign EV tech deals

What does this do?

This bill creates a new office inside the Commerce Department with the power to review, restrict, or block business deals involving technology used in connected vehicles. The office can act when those deals involve companies or technology linked to China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea. The Director of National Intelligence would also be required to produce regular threat assessments and share them with Congress.

Who does it affect?

This bill mainly affects companies that make, sell, or use technology in connected vehicles, especially those with supply chain ties to the four named countries. The new office and the Director of National Intelligence would take on new responsibilities under this law.

Why does it matter?

If the office finds a deal poses an undue risk to national security or critical infrastructure, it can require changes, set cybersecurity conditions, or ban the transaction entirely. Any ban must be publicly announced in the Federal Register.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Civil fines: $250K–$1M per violation
• Up to 20 years prison for willful crimes

Where does it stand?