Countering Untrusted Telecommunications Abroad Act
Summary
The "Countering Untrusted Telecommunications Abroad Act" aims to address national security concerns related to telecommunications equipment and services provided by entities with close ties to foreign governments, specifically Huawei and ZTE. The bill mandates reports on the prevalence of untrusted telecommunications equipment in the networks of US allies and within US embassies. It also seeks to support trusted telecommunications infrastructure projects through diplomatic and political means.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase scrutiny and potentially reduce the use of telecommunications equipment from certain foreign entities in the US and allied countries. It could also lead to increased investment in and adoption of trusted telecommunications alternatives. The act will also require government resources to produce the mandated reports.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by reducing reliance on potentially compromised telecommunications equipment.
- Increased transparency regarding the use of untrusted telecommunications equipment in US embassies and allied networks.
- Potential for increased investment in trusted telecommunications infrastructure projects.
- Strengthened diplomatic and political support for trusted telecommunications solutions.
- Improved cybersecurity for US allies and partners.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on diplomatic relations with countries where Huawei and ZTE equipment is prevalent.
- Increased costs for replacing existing untrusted telecommunications equipment.
- Possible delays in the deployment of 5G and 6G networks due to the need to replace equipment.
- Potential for retaliatory measures from countries affected by the Act.
- The reports mandated by the act will require government resources and time.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the US Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. Congress's power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) supports the Act's provisions regarding telecommunications equipment. The reporting requirements are consistent with Congress's oversight responsibilities.
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).