Cortez Masto Backed Connected Vehicle Security Act

The senator joined efforts to ban Chinese vehicles and components from the United States market.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Isometric editorial illustration of a generic electronic control module, representing the technical security scope of the proposed automotive legislation.
Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has announced her support for the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026, aimed at restricting Chinese automotive components in the U.S. market. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has announced her support for the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026. The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit the sale of Chinese vehicles and automotive component parts within the United States.

Why it matters

The legislation is designed to shield the American automotive industry from foreign subsidies while preventing data harvesting risks. Proponents argue the measures are necessary to safeguard user privacy and ensure national security.

The Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 includes provisions to block Chinese automotive imports and associated parts. The total impact on vehicle availability remains subject to the bill's final language and passage.

The players

Catherine Cortez Masto

She is a United States Senator who announced her support for the new vehicle security legislation.

Bernie Moreno

He is a co-sponsor of the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026.

Elissa Slotkin

She serves as a co-sponsor of the proposed Connected Vehicle Security Act.

The details

Co-sponsored by Bernie Moreno and Elissa Slotkin, the bill targets surveillance technology integrated into modern vehicles. Supporters contend these restrictions are essential to maintaining domestic competitiveness.

Timeline

  1. September 23, 2026: Senator Cortez Masto announced her support for the legislation.

Roadmap

This legislation reflects a broader industry shift toward decoupling American automotive supply chains from Chinese manufacturing. It signals a move by lawmakers to prioritize cybersecurity and domestic market protection against rising foreign technological competition.

If enacted, this legislation could lead to significant changes in vehicle availability and pricing for consumers. Drivers may eventually face a narrower range of vehicle options if components from the targeted nation are successfully restricted.

The takeaway

The bill marks a significant step toward integrating national security concerns into automotive trade policy. Consumers should monitor how these potential restrictions might influence the cost and variety of future vehicle purchases.

Further reading

Learn more about evolving market regulations in the Electric Vehicles section.

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Should the U.S. government ban the sale of Chinese vehicles to protect domestic auto manufacturers?