Bipartisan Senate effort targets Chinese-made vehicles over security and trade concerns
Senators Bernie Moreno and Elissa Slotkin are pushing legislation to restrict imports of vehicles from countries designated as foreign entities of concern, primarily targeting China. The bill aims to protect the U.S. auto industry and address risks from remote-access technologies in Chinese cars. Moreno plans to seek a vote next week, though an objection from Senator Rand Paul has delayed a quick unanimous consent.
The bill would codify existing executive actions, including the 100% tariff on Chinese EVs and a Commerce Department ban on Chinese cars with connectivity software. A July 22 committee markup raised concerns about ownership provisions. The measure targets vehicles from any country labeled a "foreign entity of concern," a category including Russia and Iran but chiefly aimed at China.
The push coincides with Trump hosting Xi in Washington, with trade and security on the agenda. Moreno claims near-unanimous Senate support, but an objection from Sen. Rand Paul stalled a quick unanimous consent request. A companion House bill is led by Moolenaar and Dingell. Moreno hopes for a floor vote next week.
This measure could protect U.S. auto jobs and address genuine cybersecurity risks from remote-access features, but it may also raise vehicle prices and limit consumer choice. By codifying existing tariffs and bans, it could solidify a trade barrier that might escalate tensions with China, affecting broader economic relations. The delay over Sen. Paul's objection suggests that even bipartisan security measures face scrutiny over scope and civil liberties, potentially influencing how future technology restrictions are crafted.