119-HR-8768 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

The CHARGE Act (H.R. 8768) aims to block U.S. sales and imports of certain electric vehicles and key EV equipment linked to “foreign entities of concern” by listing them as noncomplying motor vehicles under federal safety law. (uscode.house.gov)

What It Does

In plain terms, the bill would make it illegal to sell or import into the United States: (1) any EV or EV equipment made in whole or in part by a “foreign entity of concern,” and (2) EV charging/battery control hardware made in whole or in part by such entities. It does this by adding these vehicles and parts to NHTSA’s existing noncomplying motor vehicles regime in 49 U.S.C. §30112. The term “foreign entity of concern” is already defined in federal law and generally covers entities owned by, controlled by, or under the jurisdiction of governments of countries of concern. (uscode.house.gov)

Why It Matters

• Supporters argue it reduces cybersecurity and grid-stability risks from remotely updatable vehicles and vehicle-to-grid connections that could be exploited by foreign adversaries.
• It could reshape EV and parts supply chains, potentially limiting products with ties to countries of concern and prompting more domestic or allied sourcing.
• Critics warn it may raise prices, limit consumer choice, and complicate repairs if widely used components are swept into the restrictions.

Who’s For It

• Sponsor: Rep. Keith Self (R‑TX). The bill’s stated aim is to keep adversary-linked EVs and components out of the U.S. market on national- and grid‑security grounds. (legiscan.com)
• Members focused on China/foreign‑influence and critical‑infrastructure security have backed similar restrictions in other proposals, citing national‑security and data‑access risks. (General context, not specific endorsements.)

Who’s Against It

• Potential opposition from auto manufacturers, importers, and consumer or EV‑advocacy groups who may argue the bill sweeps too broadly, could disrupt supply chains, and increase costs for buyers and owners.
• Trade and foreign‑policy critics may also question whether the definition of “foreign entity of concern” will capture allied‑market subsidiaries or joint ventures in ways that are hard to administer.

What’s Next

As of May 14, 2026, H.R. 8768 is at an early stage: it was introduced on May 12, 2026 and referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Next steps would typically include hearings, possible subcommittee and full‑committee markups, and a House floor vote if advanced. (legiscan.com)