Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB861

Introduced
3/16/23  

Caption

PATRIA Y VIDA Act of 2023 Protecting Against Tyrants by Restoring Internet Access and Yielding Vital Interconnectivity in Designated Areas Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, SB861 would necessitate cooperation among various federal agencies, including the Department of State and the Federal Communications Commission, to ensure that internet services can effectively reach individuals in countries with oppressive regimes. Additionally, the bill mandates the identification and funding of domestic companies that create tools for evading internet censorship, underscoring a strategic move towards supporting technological innovation with implications for global human rights advocacy. This change aims to improve internet freedom globally while enhancing the resilience of communication channels within the U.S.

Summary

SB861, also known as the 'PATRIA Y VIDA Act of 2023', seeks to enhance the ability of the United States government to maintain and transmit internet access services, both internationally and domestically, particularly in situations of emergency-related disruptions. The bill emphasizes the development of circumvention technologies designed to assist users in overcoming government-imposed internet censorship. This proposed legislation highlights the growing need for robust internet access in the face of both external and internal challenges to free speech and communication.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding SB861 may evoke concerns regarding the balance between ensuring freedom of access and potential government overreach in technology. While proponents argue the importance of combating censorship for personal liberties, critics might question the implications of government involvement in controlling internet access and the associated privacy concerns. The bill's potential to mobilize federal resources for mitigating censorship risks and facilitating rapid response to disruptions brings forth various points of contention regarding the governance of internet technologies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SB2344

Freedom to Vote Act Voters’ Access to Water Act Right to Vote Act Automatic Voter Registration Act of 2023 Help America Run Act Government By the People Act of 2023 Restoring Integrity to America’s Elections Act Stop Super PAC–Candidate Coordination Act Spotlight Act Honest Ads Act DISCLOSE Act of 2023 Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections Act of 2023 Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act of 2023 Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2023 Democracy Restoration Act of 2023 Voter Registration Modernization Act of 2023 Voter Empowerment Act of 2023

US HB4858

Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act of 2023

US HB827

Home Internet Accessibility Act

US SB1881

Restoring Sovereignty and Human Rights in Nicaragua Act of 2023

US SB2103

Protecting Ballot Measures from Foreign Influence Act of 2023 SECURE IT Act of 2023 Strengthening Election Cybersecurity to Uphold Respect for Elections through Independent Testing Act of 2023 Sensible Classification Act of 2023 Classification Reform Act of 2023

US HB1267

Air Carrier Access Amendments Act of 2023

US SB920

International Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2024

US SB1939

FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 Access and Dignity for All People Who Travel Act of 2023

US SB1007

International Human Rights Defense Act of 2023

US SB1638

Protection Against Foreign Adversarial Artificial Intelligence Act of 2025

Similar Bills

TX SB1626

Relating to censorship of or certain other interference with digital expression, including expression on social media platforms or through electronic mail messages.

TX HB4087

Relating to censorship of or certain other interference with digital expression, including expression on social media platforms or through electronic mail messages.

US SB417

INFORM Act Informing a Nation with Free, Open, and Reliable Media Act of 2025

HI SB357

Relating To Offenses Against The Internet.

US SB5377

INFORM Act Informing a Nation with Free, Open, and Reliable Media Act of 2024

CT HB05252

An Act Concerning Indecent Deceptive Trade Practices, The Regulation Of Internet-enabled Devices, Live Adult Entertainment Establishments, Social Media Censorship And The Establishment Of The Connecticut Human Trafficking And Child Exploitation Prevention Grant Fund.

AZ SB1135

Procurement; information content provider; prohibition

TX HB165

Relating to civil liability for censorship by social media companies.