USA Act

This bill directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to push for clear, fair, and open rules when countries and companies set global technical standards. It says NIST should promote openness, transparency, due process, appeals, and consensus in how these standards are made, so the process is fair and trusted. It also tells NIST to back “voluntary consensus standards” created by private groups, since these are a key part of the U.S. system and help American products reach global markets.

The bill strengthens teamwork between government and the private sector and asks NIST to coordinate with other federal agencies. The goal is to support U.S. businesses and experts—especially in new and emerging technologies—so American interests are well represented when standards are written around the world.

Key points:

• Who is affected: NIST, other federal agencies, U.S. companies, and standards organizations involved in setting technical rules.
• What changes: Promote open and fair standard-setting; support private-sector-led standards; strengthen public–private partnerships; coordinate across agencies on standards for new tech.
• When: Would take effect upon enactment; no specific deadlines are listed.