H.R.2061 - Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2061, the Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act, directs the Secretary of Commerce to develop a whole-of-government strategy to ensure the economic competitiveness of the information and communication technology (ICT) supply chain. This involves reporting on critical ICT, assessing the competitiveness of U.S. vendors, and identifying actions to support trusted vendors and reduce dependence on non-trusted sources.
The Act mandates a report to Congress within one year, followed by a strategy report within 180 days. The strategy will include recommendations for strengthening federal resources and addressing barriers to market-based solutions.
The Secretary of Commerce must consult with various stakeholders, including other federal agencies and ICT vendors, to develop these reports and strategies.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to bolster the U.S.'s position in the global ICT market by identifying vulnerabilities and dependencies. It will likely lead to increased government support for domestic ICT vendors deemed 'trusted'.
This could result in shifts in federal funding and policy to favor certain companies and technologies. The long-term impact will depend on the effectiveness of the developed strategy and its implementation.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened domestic ICT industry, leading to more jobs and innovation.
- Reduced reliance on potentially untrustworthy foreign technology, enhancing national security.
- Improved economic competitiveness of U.S. ICT vendors in the global market.
- A more coordinated and strategic approach to ICT development across the federal government.
- Increased transparency and accountability in the ICT supply chain.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs due to prioritizing trusted (potentially more expensive) vendors.
- Risk of stifling innovation by limiting access to a broader range of technologies.
- Possible trade disputes with countries whose vendors are deemed 'not trusted'.
- Bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies in implementing the strategy.
- Difficulty in accurately assessing and defining 'trusted' vs. 'not trusted' vendors, leading to arbitrary decisions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. By addressing the economic competitiveness of the ICT supply chain, the bill aims to promote and regulate interstate and international commerce.
There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties as defined in the Bill of Rights. The focus is on economic and national security considerations related to technology vendors.
However, the implementation of the 'trusted' vs. 'not trusted' vendor designations could raise due process concerns if not implemented transparently and fairly.
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).