US Lawmakers Introduce Chip Security Act to Track AI Exports, Limit China Access

A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers introduced the Chip Security Act to enhance export controls on advanced AI chips, requiring manufacturers like Nvidia and AMD to embed location-tracking technology before exporting these sensitive components. The legislation aims to prevent the diversion of American AI technology to adversaries, particularly China, where such chips are reportedly smuggled via shell companies to advance military and surveillance capabilities. Lawmakers, including Rep. Bill Foster and Rep. Bill Huizenga, emphasize that the bill responds to ongoing efforts by China to exploit weaknesses in U.S. export controls, threatening national security and global stability. The bill mandates immediate reporting if chips are found in unauthorized locations and tasks the Department of Commerce with enforcing safeguards and exploring further protective measures. Senator Tom Cotton introduced a parallel Senate bill advocating for similar tracking requirements, highlighting concerns over a recent Trump administration policy easing export restrictions. The proposed legislation reflects bipartisan consensus on the need for robust measures to secure U.S. AI chip technology against misuse by foreign adversaries.