Stop Stealing our Chips Act

Key Points

• This bill creates a new program to reward people who report companies or individuals for illegally sending high-tech computer chips to foreign enemies. The goal is to protect national security by making sure advanced artificial intelligence technology stays out of the hands of countries that could use it against the United States.
• Whistleblowers who provide original information that leads to a government fine can receive a cash reward. The payment would be between 10% and 30% of the total money collected from the fine. This applies to anyone who speaks up voluntarily, including people who are not U.S. citizens, as long as they aren't federal employees on the job.
• The law would make it illegal for employers to fire, demote, or harass workers who report these crimes. If a worker is punished for being a whistleblower, they can sue to get their job back with the same seniority. They could also be awarded double the amount of back pay they are owed, plus coverage for their legal fees.
• To make reporting easier and safer, the Department of Commerce will create a secure website where people can submit tips anonymously. The government must check if a report is believable within 60 days and will provide regular status updates to the whistleblower every 30 days while the investigation is ongoing.

Impact Analysis

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