SAFE Supply Chains Act

Key Points

• The bill would stop the Defense Department from buying or using certain tech hardware unless it comes straight from the manufacturer or an approved seller.
• It targets end-use tech hardware and components, including the built-in software and firmware that make the hardware run (not stand-alone software).
• The Defense Secretary could waive the rule for scientific research or to keep mission-critical work running, but would have to notify Congress and explain the safety steps.
• The Defense Department would have to publish guidance to help blocked vendors become approved sellers, so they can compete for future contracts.
• Starting one year after the bill becomes law, the Defense Department would report to Congress each year for 6 years on how often waivers were used and what it’s doing to reduce them. No new funding is provided.