Remote Access Security Act
This bill expands U.S. export controls to restrict foreign access to sensitive American technologies over the internet and cloud networks. Under current law, export rules focus mainly on physically shipping hardware or sending software files abroad. This change allows the federal government to require licenses or ban foreign entities from remotely using high-tech systems—such as advanced artificial intelligence chips and cloud servers—that remain physically located within the United States.
What this bill touches.
Who it helps · who it burdens.
Who it helps
- Department of CommerceGranted expanded statutory authority to regulate, license, monitor, investigate, and penalize unauthorized remote access to U.S.-controlled items under the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (Sec. 2).
Who it burdens
- U.S. cloud computing and technology service providersSubject to export control regulations, licensing requirements, screening, and civil or criminal penalties if they provide foreign entities or persons with remote access to U.S.-controlled items via networks, the internet, or cloud computing services (Sec. 2).
- Foreign individuals and companies accessing U.S. technology remotelyFace new federal export restrictions, licensing hurdles, and potential enforcement penalties when attempting to remotely access U.S.-controlled technology, software, or equipment through internet or cloud platforms (Sec. 2).
The provisions, in plain language.
Expands federal export control authority to regulate and restrict foreign individuals and companies from remotely accessing U.S.-controlled technology, software, or equipment through network connections, the internet, or cloud computing services.
Authorizes the Department of Commerce to require export licenses, impose conditions, and screen transactions that provide or facilitate remote access to controlled U.S. items.
Applies export control enforcement powers, investigations, and civil and criminal penalties to unauthorized remote access to controlled items or providing such access without a permit.