Export Controls Overview
Export Control Laws (ECLs) are federal regulations that control the export of certain technologies, commodities, services, or information to other countries or to foreign nationals living in the United States (“deemed export”). These items are regulated for both national security and short supply reasons, and since 9/11 universities using these items in research have become increasingly scrutinized. Researchers should be especially careful when exporting certain technology or information abroad or to foreign nationals living within the United States, since ECLs may apply.
These regulations include the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), issued by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry & Security; the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), issued by the Department of State; and embargoes issued against certain countries, organizations, and individuals by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Controls (OFAC). Items covered by the EAR or the ITAR, which apply to inherently commercial or inherently military items, respectively, may require a license for export if no exemption applies.
It is crucial that researchers be able to spot potential ECL issues when they arise. Export control violations result in strict penalties that may be enforced against both the researcher and the university. These penalties may include imprisonment, large fines, and suspension of export privileges. OSP is working to provide more comprehensive information about export controls on its website, and we encourage you to visit the pages listed below, as well as to check back regularly for new information.
