The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) are administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) within the Commerce Department. The EAR classifies items by their potential military and proliferation risk, assigns Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs), and specifies which destinations require export licenses. The regulations have their roots in the Export Administration Act of 1979 and have been significantly expanded since 2022 to address advanced semiconductor and AI technology. Violations of the EAR can result in civil fines up to $1.5 million per violation or criminal penalties including up to 20 years in prison. The EAR is the primary legal authority for US semiconductor and AI export controls.