H.R.906 - Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 906, the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act, directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to publish a list of entities holding FCC authorizations, licenses, or grants of authority that have certain foreign ownership. This includes entities with equity or voting interests held by covered entities (governments, entities organized under the laws, or subsidiaries of entities from covered countries) or those under the control of an appropriate national security agency.
The bill requires the FCC to issue rules to obtain information to identify these entities and update the list annually. The Act aims to increase transparency regarding foreign influence in U.S. communications infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase scrutiny of foreign ownership in U.S. communications entities. This could lead to divestitures or stricter regulatory oversight of companies with ties to foreign adversaries. Ultimately, this aims to safeguard U.S. communications networks from potential foreign interference or espionage.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency regarding foreign ownership in U.S. communications infrastructure.
- Enhanced national security by identifying and monitoring entities with ties to foreign adversaries.
- Potential for reduced foreign influence in U.S. communications networks.
- Improved public awareness of potential risks associated with foreign-owned communications entities.
- Strengthened regulatory oversight of foreign-owned entities operating in the U.S. communications sector.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased regulatory burden on communications companies.
- Possible chilling effect on foreign investment in the U.S. communications sector.
- Risk of unintended consequences or overreach in defining "covered entities."
- Potential for delays in FCC licensing and authorization processes.
- Possible retaliatory measures from covered countries.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the U.S. Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and provide for the common defense. The First Amendment implications regarding freedom of speech are minimal, as the Act focuses on transparency and does not directly restrict speech but rather regulates ownership and control of communication infrastructure.
The Act also aligns with the government's responsibility to protect national security. By promoting transparency in foreign ownership of communication entities, the Act enables better oversight and regulation to prevent potential threats.
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).