S.1754 - Preventing PLA Acquisition of United States Technology Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1754, the "Preventing PLA Acquisition of United States Technology Act of 2025," aims to counter the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) military-civil fusion strategy. The bill seeks to prevent U.S. contributions to the development of dual-use technologies in China by restricting scientific research and technical exchanges between covered U.S. entities and Chinese entities of concern. It mandates the creation of a website listing prohibited areas of research and entities of concern, and requires annual reporting from covered entities on their research relationships with Chinese entities.
Expected Effects
The bill would likely lead to a decrease in collaborative research and technology transfer between the U.S. and China, particularly in sensitive technology areas. U.S. institutions and companies receiving federal funding would face stricter scrutiny and potential penalties for engaging with designated Chinese entities. This could also lead to a shift in research partnerships and funding priorities within the U.S.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened national security by preventing the PLA from acquiring advanced U.S. technology.
- Protection of U.S. intellectual property and technological advantages.
- Increased transparency and accountability in research collaborations with Chinese entities.
- Incentivizes U.S. institutions to prioritize domestic research and development.
- Reduces the risk of U.S. technology being used against U.S. interests.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for hindering scientific progress through restrictions on international collaboration.
- Increased administrative burden and compliance costs for U.S. institutions and companies.
- Risk of retaliatory measures from China, impacting U.S. businesses and research institutions.
- Difficulty in precisely defining and identifying "Chinese entities of concern," leading to potential overreach.
- Possible chilling effect on legitimate academic and scientific exchanges.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on national security and defense aligns with the Constitution's charge to "provide for the common defence." Congress has broad authority to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). However, the bill's potential impact on academic freedom and scientific exchange could raise concerns under the First Amendment, particularly if the restrictions are overly broad or vague. The balance between national security and individual liberties would need careful consideration.
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).