US to require export licenses for foreign nationals

Posted by gizmo at 09:04 PM in technology . | 0 Comments

"Under the new Commerce Department proposal, the use of everything from basic computer systems, semiconductors, and training manuals to microscopes and telescopes will require some international students to apply for government licenses before they can legally have access to or study the technology."

This proposal will have a staggering effect on the US's position as a country among those at the forefront of technology. As with the tighter constraints on F1 visas and H1-b work permits this proposal will likely exacerbate exodus of high tech talent from our country. Not to sound like a conspiracy theorist, but when the high tech talent leaves the high tech companies will not be far behind.

Here is a document from the Bureau of Industry and Security detailing the changes sought to the current export license rules. Here is the BIS homepage

The BIS has extended the public comment period on this item until June 27. Instructions for commenting are included in the document linked above:

BIS is particularly interested in views
on the impact the proposal will have on
technology developers and
manufacturers, academic institutions,
and U.S. government research facilities.
BIS is interested in receiving specific
information regarding the impact of the
regulations, e.g., data on the number of
foreign nationals in the United States
who will face licensing requirements if
the OIG’s recommendations were
adopted, and impact of compliance with
the new licensing requirements—cost,
resources, procedures. BIS is also
interested in receiving any alternative
suggestions regarding the concerns
raised by the OIG.

If you happen to belong to one of the above mentioned institutions that will be impacted by these new regulations I would highly encourage you to let the BIS know.