Blocking the Export of Nuclear Energy Technology to China (S. Joint Res. 19)

What is S. Joint Res. 19?

(Updated November 15, 2017)

This resolution would express Congress’ disapproval of the proposed agreement between the U.S. and the People’s Republic of China to cooperate on issues of nuclear energy.

It would block the renewal of the “Section 123” trade agreement that the U.S. has with China, which must be extended by December 2015 or U.S. companies would no longer be able to provide technology used in nuclear power plants to China.

Argument in favor

China’s theft of intellectual property from U.S. businesses and its collaboration with Iran and North Korea on developing military technology show that the Chinese aren’t interested in a mutually beneficial partnership with the U.S.

Argument opposed

The export of technology used in nuclear power plants provides Americans with jobs and businesses with income. Preventing those exports from going to China would reduce U.S. influence on global energy and nonproliferation policies.

Impact

Companies that would export nuclear technology to China, Congress, and the Chinese government.

Cost of S. Joint Res. 19

A CBO cost estimate is unavailable.

Additional Info

In-Depth: Sponsoring Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) cited concerns about China’s willingness to abide by the terms of this agreement as a primary reason he introduced this disapproval resolution:

“During congressional review of this agreement, serious questions have been raised about China’s compliance with the existing nuclear cooperation agreement and Beijing’s intentions to violate the agreement now before Congress.”

In their press release, Sen. Rubio and lead cosponsor Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) also observed that China’s behavior has challenged U.S. interests. Specifically, they noted its continued theft of U.S. intellectual property, its military cooperation with Iran and North Korea, and tensions in the South China Sea

In expressing its support for the renewal of the 123 agreement with China — and its opposition to this resolution — the Nuclear Energy Institute noted that China’s construction of nuclear power plants could lead to between $70 - $204 billion in exports, and support 45,000 American jobs.

Media:

• Sponsoring Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) Press Release
• The Hill
• Nuclear Energy Institute (Opposed)