H.R.1737 - An Act To direct the Secretary of Commerce to submit to Congress a report containing an assessment of the value, cost, and feasibility of a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable connecting the contiguous United States, the United States Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1737 directs the Secretary of Commerce to submit a report to Congress assessing the value, cost, and feasibility of a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable connecting the contiguous United States, the United States Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria. The report aims to enhance U.S. national security by evaluating the potential benefits and challenges of this infrastructure project. The assessment will include digital security, national security, economic opportunities, and the readiness of telecommunications infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the allocation of resources within the Department of Commerce to conduct the study and prepare the report. The long-term effect depends on the report's findings and whether Congress decides to pursue the construction of the submarine fiber optic cable. If implemented, it could improve telecommunications infrastructure and security between the specified regions.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Enhanced national security through improved telecommunications infrastructure.
- Potential economic opportunities for the United States and partner countries.
- Improved digital security and resilience of telecommunications networks.
- Increased connectivity and data transfer capabilities.
- Potential for establishing a high-security cloud services facility in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of constructing and maintaining the submarine fiber optic cable could be substantial.
- Potential geopolitical risks associated with relying on infrastructure in foreign countries.
- The report may identify unforeseen challenges or limitations.
- Data security risks if the cable is not properly secured.
- The project may face delays or technical difficulties.
Constitutional Alignment 5/5
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare (Preamble). Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) and to provide for the national defense (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1). The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).