Strengthening Export Controls Compliance Act

This legislative proposal seeks to strengthen compliance with the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 by mandating enhanced assistance for United States businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. It emphasizes the critical role of the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) in educating the public on evolving export control regulations and their implementation to safeguard national security and technological leadership.

The bill requires the President to develop a biennial industry outreach plan detailing how the Department of Commerce will provide counseling, virtual and in-person trainings, and other activities to facilitate compliance. Furthermore, it mandates the Secretary of Commerce to host an annual "Update Conference on Export Controls and Policy", open to the public, to offer compliance assistance and policy updates. Crucially, BIS must also conduct dedicated public and industry outreach to explain the intent and implementation of any major new rules prior to their promulgation.

To ensure greater transparency and accountability, the bill amends the annual report to Congress. It requires a detailed list of compliance assistance efforts and new information regarding Advisory Opinion and Commodity Classification requests, including the number submitted, issued, average processing times, and redacted opinions posted.