Dingell, Harshbarger Introduce Legislation to Study Chinese Threats to the U.S. Auto Industry

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01) introduced the Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation that would direct the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to conduct a comprehensive study of the national and economic security risks foreign adversaries pose to the United States automotive industry.

"I'm a car girl-I will always fight for our auto workers and this critical industry that is the backbone of America's economy. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan piece of legislation that will create good-paying jobs and protect our national security. And we must continue our efforts to decrease our reliance on China and create a level playing field," said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.

"China has a playbook, and we've watched them run it on critical minerals, shipbuilding, and batteries," said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. "Now they're setting their sights on the global automotive market, building out their industrial base with state subsidies and flooding markets with artificially cheap products to undercut American manufacturers. As vehicles become more connected and software-driven, that strategy isn't just an economic threat, it's a national security threat and a risk to the data of every American behind the wheel. This bill gives policymakers the facts we need to understand how deep this penetration goes and to protect our automotive industry before it's too late."

Specifically, the study would examine:

• Foreign ownership of, and state-directed investment in, U.S. automakers by foreign military organizations, political parties, and state-owned enterprises.
• Joint ventures, subsidiaries, and commercial partnerships between U.S. manufacturers and foreign adversaries.
• Transfers of critical and emerging technologies to foreign adversaries.
• Impacts on U.S. national security, economic competitiveness, and intellectual property protection.

The bill requires the Secretary of Commerce to submit findings to the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and to publish an unclassified report, within two years of enactment.

Bill text can be found HERE.