Us Congress House Bill HB8826

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/25/24
• Refer: 6/25/24

Caption

Chip EQUIP Act Chip Equipment Quality, Usefulness, and Integrity Protection Act of 2024

Impact

If enacted, HB 8826 would impact state and federal procurement laws by expanding restrictions on procurement from foreign entities considered to be of concern to national security. The bill updates specific definitions associated with eligible semiconductor manufacturing equipment and sets out a legal framework to guide the Secretary of Defense in determining what constitutes ineligible equipment that may jeopardize national security. This prohibition aims to minimize risks associated with reliance on foreign technologies that could potentially compromise sensitive information or pose security threats.

Summary

House Bill 8826, known as the Chip Equipment Quality, Usefulness, and Integrity Protection Act of 2024, aims to prohibit covered entities that receive federal financial assistance related to semiconductors from purchasing certain semiconductor manufacturing equipment from foreign entities of concern or their subsidiaries. This bill is part of a broader effort to secure the semiconductor supply chain in the United States and to safeguard national security interests, particularly in relation to the increasing competition in the semiconductor industry globally.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly regarding the definition of 'foreign entities of concern' and the exclusion of certain equipment. Stakeholders may voice concerns about how these restrictions could affect the semiconductor industry's competitiveness, especially small businesses that rely on affordable equipment from international markets. Additionally, the bill allows for certain waivers under specific circumstances which may lead to debates over the criteria for granting such waivers, impacting the effectiveness of the legislation.