119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 6576
The SAFE LiDAR Act restricts the use of light detection and ranging technology from foreign adversary countries—primarily China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea—citing national security concerns about espionage risks and supply chain vulnerability. The bill prohibits most U.S. businesses from purchasing or using this foreign-made LiDAR technology within three years of passage, with stricter immediate bans for federal government agencies and critical infrastructure operators like utilities and transportation systems. The legislation also blocks new joint ventures and licensing agreements between U.S. companies and foreign adversary LiDAR manufacturers, though the Secretary of Commerce can grant case-by-case exemptions for national interest or hardship reasons and must establish a task force to manage the transition. Existing international arrangements can continue to be fulfilled during the transition period. The Secretary of Commerce is required to report annually to Congress on enforcement actions, approved waivers, emerging security threats, and any efforts by adversaries to circumvent these restrictions.