The proposed legislation, called the Connected Vehicle Security Act, is co-sponsored by John Moolenaar, a Republican from Michigan, and Debbie Dingell, a Democrat from Michigan. The bill mirrors a Senate version introduced last month by Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio and Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan.
The measure seeks to formalize the rules for compliance and enforcement, extending beyond the temporary restrictions outlined in the executive order. According to the House committee, the law would include penalties for companies that violate the restrictions.
Scope Of The Bill
The move reflects growing concerns over the rise of Chinese automakers in global markets. Companies such as Chery, Geely, and BYD have expanded their international presence, with models like the 2026 BYD Dolphin Surf gaining attention outside China.
Lawmakers note that these companies continue to develop advanced connectivity software, which is central to the bill’s focus. Supporters of the measure emphasize that it protects U.S. manufacturing jobs and ensures the security of vehicle data.
The Connected Vehicle Security Act would bar Chinese automakers from selling passenger cars in the U.S. if the vehicles contain any China-developed connectivity software. According to the House of Representatives Select Committee on China, the legislation applies not only to China but also to other states categorized as “foreign adversary countries,” including Russia, North Korea, and Iran.
The bill establishes legal frameworks to enforce these restrictions, which would go beyond the temporary measures set by the 2025 executive order. It also sets standards for reviewing compliance and monitoring imports of connected vehicles.
Bipartisan Support And Congressional Push
The legislation has attracted support from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers in Michigan. In an open letter to former President Donald Trump dated April 28, Dingell and several other members of Congress emphasized the national security and economic implications of allowing Chinese vehicles into the U.S. market.
The lawmakers wrote that easing restrictions would “pose a direct threat to American manufacturing, workers, and national security,” according to Car and Driver. Their bipartisan approach underscores widespread concern about foreign technology in critical sectors.
Responses From Lawmakers And Foreign Representatives
In introducing the bill, Moolenaar stated that “Chinese smart vehicles present a clear national security threat.” The proposal has drawn criticism from the Chinese embassy in Washington, which warned that the U.S. is “overstretching the concept of national security” .
The contrasting positions highlight the tension between trade interests and security concerns as Chinese automakers continue to grow internationally. Congress is expected to debate the bill in the coming months, with lawmakers from multiple states weighing in on its implications for industry and security.
