Export Controls Enforcement Act

The Export Controls Enforcement Act would for a five-year term create a dedicated program to strengthen U.S. export control enforcement by expanding the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) presence overseas. Specifically, it requires not less than 20 export control officers to be stationed at U.S. diplomatic or consular posts around the world, overseen by a newly appointed Program Director. These officers would conduct end-use checks, advise diplomatic posts, engage in industry outreach, liaise with foreign governments, share enforcement information with BIS, and identify optimal targets for end-use checks. The bill is motivated by current staffing gaps (only 11 officers abroad as of 2025) and the belief that a larger overseas presence will improve compliance with license requirements and prevent diversion of controlled items.