H.R.1121 - No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1121, the "No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act," aims to prohibit the use of the DeepSeek application (or any successor application developed by High Flyer) by executive agencies. The bill mandates the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to develop standards and guidelines for removing the application from government information technology systems. This must be done in consultation with various agency heads, including those from the General Services Administration, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, National Intelligence, and Defense.
The bill includes exceptions for law enforcement, national security, and security research activities. It also requires agencies to develop and document risk mitigation actions for any authorized use of DeepSeek under these exceptions.
The bill seeks to address potential security risks associated with the use of DeepSeek on government devices, reflecting concerns about data security and national security.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would lead to the removal of DeepSeek from government devices and systems within 60 days of enactment. Agencies would need to find alternative solutions for any functions currently performed by DeepSeek, except in cases where exceptions are granted for national security or research purposes.
This could necessitate investment in new software or technologies and require training for government employees. The bill will also likely prompt further scrutiny of foreign-developed software used by the US government.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced data security by limiting the use of a potentially vulnerable application.
- Protection of sensitive government information from potential foreign access.
- Encouragement of the development and use of secure, domestically-sourced software solutions.
- Increased public confidence in the security of government IT systems.
- Mitigation of potential national security risks associated with foreign software.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential disruption of government operations if DeepSeek is currently used for critical functions.
- Costs associated with transitioning to alternative software solutions.
- Possible limitations on access to cutting-edge technology if DeepSeek offers unique capabilities.
- Potential delays in government projects due to the need to find and implement alternative solutions.
- Possible chilling effect on collaboration with international partners if overly broad restrictions are placed on software use.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly regarding the government's responsibility to provide for the common defense and ensure national security. While the Constitution does not explicitly address cybersecurity, the implied powers doctrine allows Congress to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8).
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. The restrictions apply to government agencies and devices, not to private citizens. The First Amendment is not implicated as the bill does not restrict speech or expression.
Furthermore, the bill's focus on national security and law enforcement exceptions suggests an attempt to balance security concerns with potential impacts on legitimate uses of the technology. The requirement for risk mitigation plans further demonstrates a careful approach to implementation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).