The bill, which already enjoys the backing of 51 Senate co‑sponsors, aims to codify a ban first imposed by the Biden administration in early 2025 that barred Chinese automakers from selling or building passenger vehicles in the United States on national‑security grounds.
A companion version of the measure in the House of Representatives has attracted more than 100 co‑sponsors, reflecting broad bipartisan interest and pressure from the auto industry, which argues that Chinese investment would shift jobs away from established U.S. manufacturers.
Slotkin told reporters on Capitol Hill that the goal is “unanimous Senate approval” this week, adding that the sponsors are reaching out to any potential opponents to address their concerns. Moreno has filed a notice indicating he will seek unanimous consent on the floor.
While the effort enjoys strong momentum, a congressional aide said a few Republican senators have raised questions, and it remains unclear whether they will ultimately object to the legislation.
The proposed law would prevent the White House from issuing waivers that could allow Chinese firms to sell or manufacture vehicles in the United States, effectively locking in the current tariff regime of over 100 % on Chinese electric cars.
China has publicly denounced the ban and any attempt to make it permanent, calling it protectionist. Meanwhile, President Trump recently told Fox News he would be open to Chinese car companies building vehicles in the U.S., a comment that sparked alarm among automakers and prompted a joint letter from six industry groups—including General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Stellantis and Tesla—urging the administration to keep the “door firmly shut” to Chinese entrants.
Lawmakers cite national‑security concerns tied to vehicle connectivity technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, cellular and satellite communications, which could transmit sensitive driver data to Chinese authorities.