HR-2912 : Still Just a Bill

The Airport Infrastructure Vehicle Security Act (H.R. 2912) amends title 49 of the United States Code to modify the requirements for purchasing goods produced in the United States for certain airport-related projects. Key provisions include:

• Limitation on Rolling Stock Procurement: Financial assistance cannot be used to award contracts for rolling stock (e.g., vehicles used at airports) if the manufacturer:
  • Is incorporated or has manufacturing facilities in the United States.
  • Is owned or controlled by, a subsidiary of, or otherwise related legally or financially to a corporation based in a country that:
    • Is identified as a nonmarket economy country.
    • Is on the United States Trade Representative's priority watch list.
    • Is subject to monitoring by the Trade Representative.
• Exceptions: The term "otherwise related legally or financially" generally excludes:
  • A minority relationship or investment.
  • Relationships with or investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures, or other entities based in a restricted country that do not export rolling stock or components to the United States.
  However, any relationship or investment involving a corporation based in China is included.
• International Agreements: The subsection must be applied consistently with the United States' obligations under international agreements.
• Conforming Amendments: The bill removes exceptions for section 47127 in sections related to:
  • Restricting contract awards due to discrimination against United States goods or services.
  • Restrictions on airport projects using products or services from foreign countries denying fair market opportunities.
  • Fraudulent use of the "Made in America" label.

In essence, the bill aims to limit the procurement of airport rolling stock from manufacturers with significant ties to certain countries identified as non-market economies or engaged in unfair trade practices.