AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Aug 31, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 18, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Prohibits importation, manufacture, sale, and interstate commerce of connected vehicles and related software/hardware tied to China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea
- Expands current Department of Commerce regulations that previously covered only China and Russia to include Iran and North Korea
- Defines 'connected vehicles' as those integrating networked hardware and automotive software to communicate via wireless or similar methods, whether capability is currently enabled or disabled
- Specifies that artificial intelligence components are covered by the prohibition
- Requires the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security to publish an authorized items list by January 1, 2027
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The bill expands the scope of existing regulatory restrictions rather than creating entirely new prohibitions
- Civil penalties are established as an enforcement mechanism, though specific penalty amounts are not detailed in the official summary
- An authorized items list will create exceptions to the prohibition, but the contents of that list are not yet determined
- Effect on current vehicle inventory, consumer prices, or manufacturer compliance timelines is not documented in the official summary
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation ordered the bill reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute (July 22, 2026)
- Bill was introduced in Senate and referred to Commerce Committee (April 29, 2026)
- No additional floor votes or passage dates have been recorded
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 22, 2026 — Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
- Apr 29, 2026 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
- Apr 29, 2026 — Introduced in Senate