H.R.1737 - 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 prepare a report assessing the value, cost, and feasibility of a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable. This cable would connect the contiguous United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria. The report is intended to enhance U.S. national security.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the allocation of resources within the Department of Commerce to conduct the assessment. If the assessment is favorable, it could lead to future investment in infrastructure projects. This could improve telecommunications and data security between the specified locations.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Enhanced national security through improved telecommunications infrastructure.
- Potential economic opportunities for the U.S. Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria.
- Improved digital security and telecommunications between the U.S. and its territories.
- Possible establishment of a data center and high-security cloud services in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Increased connectivity and investment in the U.S. economy.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of the report and potential future infrastructure projects.
- Potential delays in the implementation of the project.
- Risk of geopolitical complications related to engagement with foreign entities.
- Possible environmental impact from the installation of the submarine cable.
- No guarantee that the assessment will lead to tangible improvements.
Constitutional Alignment 5/5
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. The bill's focus on national security also aligns with the government's responsibility to provide for the common defense, as outlined in the Preamble. The assessment itself does not infringe on any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).