Congress Advances Bills on Chip Export Controls, AI Workforce Training, and Data Center Power Costs
Four separate technology measures moved through Congress this week, targeting semiconductor supply chains, worker training, enforcement authority, and the electricity demands of artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Aligning Semiconductor Export Controls With Allies
Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.) introduced the Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware Act on Wednesday. The bill would coordinate U.S. export restrictions with allied nations to prevent adversaries from obtaining critical semiconductor manufacturing equipment through alternative suppliers.
The measure targets "chokepoint" inputs-essential components and machinery that determine whether countries can build semiconductors domestically. If passed, it would prohibit sales of these items from the U.S. and partner nations to countries deemed a concern, primarily China.
A companion House version was introduced by Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-Wash.). Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is also a cosponsor.
Updating Workforce Development for the AI Era
Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.) introduced the Stronger Workforce for America Act of 2026 on Monday. The bill would overhaul the 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to include provisions for AI-focused training and development.
The legislation allocates funding for apprenticeships, sector partnerships, and employer-led training programs housed in the Department of Labor. It also establishes "individual training accounts" that workers can use for upskilling in emerging fields.
A second measure from Rep. Baumgartner focuses on adding data quality standards to workforce development tracking, ensuring better accountability for training outcomes.
For IT professionals, this signals growing federal investment in reskilling initiatives. Consider exploring AI Coding Courses and Generative AI and LLM Courses to stay ahead of evolving job market demands.
Doubling the Enforcement Window for Export Violations
Reps. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pa.) and Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) introduced a House bill on Wednesday that extends the statute of limitations for export control violations from five years to 10 years. The change applies to both civil enforcement actions and criminal prosecutions.
The measure also clarifies that a civil case begins when authorities issue a charging letter, giving law enforcement more time to investigate complex cases involving sensitive technology transfers.
Making Data Centers Cover Their Power Infrastructure Costs
Democrats introduced the Power for the People Act on Thursday to shift electricity cost burdens from local residents to data center operators. Rep. Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) sponsored the House version, while Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) introduced it in the Senate.
The bill directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to require data centers to pay for local transmission upgrades that currently get passed to surrounding communities. It also calls for the Energy Department and state utilities to create separate rate classes for data centers, assigning appropriate costs to the facilities rather than spreading them across residential customers.
Data centers powering AI technologies consume enormous amounts of electricity, straining local grids and raising utility bills for households.
Expanding Access to Quantum Research Equipment
Reps. Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.) and Jim Baird (R-Ind.) introduced the Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act on Thursday. The bill directs the National Science Foundation to fund shared research facilities and specialized equipment for universities, startups, and laboratories working in quantum information science.
The measure amends the National Quantum Initiative Act, which expired in 2023, to allow NSF to equip research facilities with tools needed for quantum development. It also expands access to these facilities to improve information sharing and hands-on learning for students.
Your membership also unlocks:
