Export control reform has been an item of interest for a number of U.S. industries for several years, and a congressional hearing this week suggests that lawmakers may be ready to seriously consider it. Witnesses at a February 25 hearing of the House Science and Technology Committee said that the current system puts U.S. companies at a disadvantage in the global marketplace and that reforms could play an important role in government efforts to promote economic recovery.
In the post 9/11 environment, Congress has had little appetite for taking any action that could be construed as a liberalization of export controls. In opening the hearing, however, Committee Chairman Bart Gordon asserted that “it is time for Congress to take another look at the nation’s export controls regime to ensure that it is working effectively and without unintended adverse impacts.” As part of that review, Gordon stated, “we want to understand any negative effects that the current export controls regime may be having on our efforts to stimulate the economy and promote long-term growth through investments in science and technology.” Both Gordon and Space and Aviation Subcommittee Chair, Gabrielle Giffords, expressed hope that the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs committees will review this issue as well.
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