Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Remote Access Security Act

Summary

The Remote Access Security Act amends the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to include provisions for controlling remote access to items subject to U.S. jurisdiction. It defines 'remote access' as access by a foreign person through a network connection to an item's location, posing a risk to national security or foreign policy. The Act mandates consultation with congressional committees regarding regulations on remote access, focusing on national security risks and economic impacts.

Expected Effects

This act will broaden export control laws to include remote access, potentially affecting businesses and individuals involved in international technology and data transfer. It will require businesses to implement stricter security measures to prevent unauthorized remote access to controlled items. The Act also formalizes a process for Congress to be informed about new regulations in this area.

Potential Benefits

  • Strengthens national security by controlling remote access to sensitive technologies.
  • Provides a clearer legal framework for export controls in the digital age.
  • Enhances congressional oversight of export control regulations.
  • May incentivize the development of more secure remote access technologies.
  • Could reduce the risk of intellectual property theft and espionage.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May increase compliance costs for businesses involved in international trade.
  • Could create bureaucratic hurdles for legitimate remote access activities.
  • May disproportionately affect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
  • Potential for unintended consequences on research and development collaborations.
  • Could strain relationships with foreign partners if implemented too aggressively.

Constitutional Alignment

The Act aligns with the Constitution's grant of power to Congress to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) and to provide for the common defense (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1). The consultation requirement with congressional committees also reinforces the principle of legislative oversight. The Act's focus on national security aligns with the federal government's responsibility to protect the nation.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).