Blocking CCP Spy Tech Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Perry, Scott [R-PA-10]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 14, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to accelerate and broaden the federal government's process for identifying and restricting Chinese technology deemed a national security threat by specifically targeting a list of companies.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that an appropriate national security agency determine within one year if communications equipment or services from seven specifically named Chinese entities, or their affiliates, pose an unacceptable national security risk. If a risk is found or if no determination is made, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) must add these products to its 'covered list,' which restricts the use of federal subsidies for their purchase. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of Defense to assess if these entities should be designated as Chinese military companies.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is a critical step to safeguard U.S. national security and protect American citizens from potential espionage and data exploitation by entities linked to the Chinese Communist Party. They contend that proactively identifying and restricting such technology is essential to secure critical communications infrastructure and prevent foreign adversaries from gaining undue influence or access to sensitive information. The bill provides a clear mandate and timeline, ensuring timely action on perceived threats.
Opponents contend
Opponents or skeptics might argue that while national security is paramount, specifically naming companies in legislation could set a problematic precedent, potentially leading to retaliatory measures from foreign governments or disrupting global supply chains. They may also raise concerns about the potential for politicizing national security reviews or the economic impact on U.S. businesses that may rely on components or services from the listed entities, even indirectly. Some might also question if existing review mechanisms are sufficient.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions and implications within a few minutes.
Section 2(a)-(b)
Mandatory National Security Risk Determination for Specific Entities
This provision requires an appropriate national security agency to conduct a review within one year of the bill's enactment to determine if communications equipment or services from seven named Chinese companies (Game Science Interactive Co., Ltd., DeepSeek, Unitree Robotics, DEEP Robotics, BrainCo, Inc., Manycore Tech, Inc.) and their subsidiaries or partners, pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security or the safety of U.S. persons. This is a direct mandate for a specific assessment of these entities.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision is crucial for national security, as it forces a timely and focused review of specific entities identified as potential threats. They believe that by naming these companies, the bill ensures that agencies prioritize their assessment and take decisive action to protect U.S. interests from foreign espionage and cyber threats.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that specifically naming companies in legislation could be seen as an overreach or a political move, potentially complicating diplomatic relations and trade. They might argue that existing, more generalized review processes are sufficient and less prone to political interference, or that such a specific mandate could divert resources from other critical national security assessments.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for targeted national security action against potential diplomatic and trade repercussions, as well as the administrative burden on agencies to conduct specific, time-bound reviews.
Section 2(c)
Inclusion on FCC's Covered List Based on Determinations
This section outlines the consequences of the national security review. If the national security agency determines that any of the listed equipment or services pose an unacceptable risk, or if it fails to make a determination within the one-year deadline, the FCC must add those items to its 'covered list.' This list, established under the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, restricts the use of federal funds for purchasing equipment or services from listed entities. If a negative determination (no risk) is made, the agency must report to Congress, and other national security agencies must review that determination.
Section 3
Determination of Chinese Military Company Status
This section requires the Secretary of Defense to determine if any of the entities listed in Section 2(b) (Game Science Interactive Co., Ltd., DeepSeek, Unitree Robotics, DEEP Robotics, BrainCo, Inc., Manycore Tech, Inc., and their affiliates) should be identified as a 'Chinese military company operating directly or indirectly in the United States.' This determination is to be made as part of the annual review mandated by Section 1260H(a) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021.