S.1362 - Securing America’s Federal Equipment Supply Chains Act; SAFE Supply Chains Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1362, the SAFE Supply Chains Act, aims to secure America's federal equipment supply chains by requiring the Department of Defense (DoD) to procure information and communications technology (ICT) products from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or authorized resellers. This bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with counterfeit or compromised ICT products entering the DoD supply chain. The Act includes definitions for key terms like 'authorized reseller,' 'covered product,' and 'original equipment manufacturer,' and allows for waivers under specific circumstances, such as for research purposes or to avoid jeopardizing mission-critical functions.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to limit the DoD's procurement options for ICT products, potentially increasing costs and administrative burdens. It could also lead to a more secure supply chain, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and espionage. The bill mandates reports to Congress on waivers granted, promoting transparency and oversight.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by reducing the risk of compromised ICT products.
- Potential for increased business for original equipment manufacturers and authorized resellers.
- Greater transparency in DoD procurement processes through waiver reporting requirements.
- Standardized procurement guidance to assist entities in becoming authorized resellers.
- Focus on supply chain security, which can improve the overall reliability of defense systems.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased procurement costs due to limited vendor options.
- Possible delays in procurement processes due to the need to verify vendor status.
- Administrative burden on the Secretary of Defense to grant and report on waivers.
- Risk of stifling innovation by limiting access to potentially cheaper or more innovative products from non-authorized sources.
- Potential for smaller businesses to be excluded from DoD contracts if they are not OEMs or authorized resellers.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense. By aiming to secure the defense supply chain, the bill supports this constitutional mandate. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).