Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB2114

Introduced
6/22/23  

Caption

Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it will impose new requirements on the FCC to regularly update and maintain a public database of telecommunications entities linked to foreign interests. This legislative move is rooted in the growing concerns over national security posed by foreign adversaries, particularly in sensitive sectors like communications. The transparency aimed at by SB2114 could help mitigate risks associated with espionage and interference in telecommunications infrastructure, bolstering U.S. security protocols against foreign entities that might threaten national interests.

Summary

Senate Bill 2114, titled the 'Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act', aims to enhance transparency regarding foreign ownership in telecommunications entities through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The bill mandates the FCC to compile and publish a list of entities that hold licenses or authorizations issued by the Commission and that have connections to designated foreign adversaries. These adversaries include countries such as China, Russia, and Iran, among others. The goal is to provide greater oversight and inform stakeholders about foreign influence in the telecommunications sector.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intentions to strengthen national security, it may also face criticism regarding its practical implications. Concerns have been raised about the potential for overreach in defining what constitutes a 'covered entity' and the operational burdens it could place on both the FCC and the businesses required to disclose ownership details. Critics may argue that the bill might lead to excessive scrutiny and foster a climate of distrust towards legitimate international business dealings, particularly from countries that might be framed as adversaries under this legislation.

Companion Bills

US HB820

Same As Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

Previously Filed As

US HB820

Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

US SB259

Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

US HB906

Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

US HB4577

Protecting U.S. Farmland and Sensitive Sites From Foreign Adversaries Act

US HB4087

Foreign Adversary Gain-of-Function Research Prevention Act of 2023

US SB1870

Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act

US HB1819

Foreign Influence Transparency Act

US HB1153

DATA Act Deterring America’s Technological Adversaries Act

US HB1023

RIFA Act Reporting on Investments in Foreign Adversaries Act

US HB840

Saving American Farms from Adversaries Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.