S.244 - Removing Our Unsecure Technologies to Ensure Reliability and Security Act; ROUTERS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The ROUTERS Act (S.244) directs the Secretary of Commerce, through the Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information, to conduct a study on the national security risks posed by consumer routers, modems, and combination devices. The study will focus on devices designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by entities owned, controlled, or influenced by countries specified in 10 U.S.C. 4872(f)(2). A report on the study's findings must be submitted to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation within one year of the Act's enactment.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be a study conducted by the Department of Commerce. This study aims to identify vulnerabilities in consumer networking equipment. The long-term effect could be increased regulation or restrictions on the use of certain networking devices, particularly those from countries deemed a national security risk.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by identifying and mitigating potential vulnerabilities in consumer networking equipment.
- Increased awareness among consumers and businesses regarding the security risks associated with certain devices.
- Potential for improved cybersecurity standards and regulations for networking equipment.
- Could lead to the development of more secure and reliable networking technologies.
- May encourage domestic manufacturing of secure networking equipment.
Potential Disadvantages
- The study itself may be costly to conduct.
- Potential for increased costs for consumers and businesses if regulations lead to the replacement of existing equipment.
- Possible trade tensions with countries affected by the regulations.
- The study's findings may be used to justify protectionist measures.
- Could create a false sense of security if the study is not comprehensive or if vulnerabilities are not adequately addressed.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and provide for the common defense. The study mandated by the Act could inform future legislation aimed at protecting national security and ensuring the reliability of communication infrastructure. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific individual liberties or rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
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).