In Senate Committee·Last action 353 days ago

Bill lets U.S. sanction foreign firms tied to spying or hostile militaries

Officially: Economic Espionage Prevention Act

Foreign companies and people tied to economic spying, export control violations, or support for hostile militaries could face U.S. sanctions and visa bans. The bill also requires a report on Chinese support for Russia's defense and intelligence sectors.

Where it stands

Sitting in Foreign Relations

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

The State Department must send Congress a written report within 90 days. It must examine Chinese citizens and companies that supply critical parts to Russia's defense and intelligence sectors and their partners.
That report must also look at two things. It must say whether those Chinese people or companies made major deals with Russian defense or intelligence actors already under sanctions, and whether they have already been sanctioned under current law.
Starting 30 days after the bill becomes law, the president may impose sanctions on foreign adversary entities. This applies if they knowingly spy on U.S. companies or people for trade secrets, help a foreign adversary's military or intelligence agencies, or break U.S. export control laws.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Protects U.S. Intellectual Property and Trade Secrets: Supporters argue that the bill will reduce the estimated $225–$600 billion annual loss due to economic espionage.
Strengthens National Security: By preventing adversaries from acquiring sensitive technology, the bill enhances U.S. defense capabilities.
Closes Loopholes in Existing Law: It limits exemptions that adversaries exploit to access U.S. data and technology.

✕Arguments against

Risk of Diplomatic Escalation: Critics warn that sanctions could provoke retaliation, harming U.S. trade relations.
Potential Harm to U.S. Businesses Abroad: U.S. companies in adversary nations may face counter-sanctions, affecting their operations.
Overly Broad Presidential Authority: The bill expands executive powers, raising concerns about checks and balances.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

Latest: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (5/6/2025)

MAY 6

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Bill lets U.S. sanction foreign firms tied to spying or hostile militaries

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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