Summary of HR 906: Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

Overview

Bill Number: HR 906

Introduced: January 31, 2025

Status: Received in the Senate; Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

Primary Sponsor: Robert J. Wittman (R-VA)

Cosponsors: Ro Khanna (D-CA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Elise M. Stefanik (R-NY)

Purpose and Intent

The Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act aims to enhance national security by increasing transparency regarding foreign ownership in U.S. communications networks. The bill mandates the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to publish a comprehensive list of entities that hold FCC authorizations, licenses, or grants of authority and have ties to foreign adversaries.

Key Provisions

• Transparency Requirement: The FCC is required to maintain and publish a list on its website of entities with foreign ownership that hold licenses or authorizations from the FCC.
• Focus on National Security: The bill addresses concerns that foreign adversaries could exploit their presence in U.S. communications networks to gain intelligence or compromise national security.
• Public Awareness: By making this information publicly accessible, the bill aims to assist the communications industry and other stakeholders in assessing potential security risks associated with partnerships or transactions involving these entities.

Background and Need for Legislation

The bill responds to growing concerns about the risks posed by foreign adversaries, particularly in light of previous legislation aimed at removing untrusted vendors from U.S. communications networks. The Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act (2020) and the Secure Equipment Act (2021) were initial steps to mitigate these risks. However, the presence of foreign entities holding licenses and authorizations remains a significant concern, necessitating further transparency.

Impact

• Affected Entities: The legislation will impact foreign-owned entities operating within U.S. communications networks, as well as domestic companies that may engage with these entities.
• Government Stakeholders: Federal and state agencies will benefit from enhanced visibility into potential national security threats posed by foreign adversaries.
• Public and Industry Awareness: Increased transparency will empower the public and industry stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding communications partnerships.

Legislative Process

• Committee Action: The bill was favorably reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce without amendments.
• House Approval: HR 906 passed the House on April 28, 2025, by voice vote after a brief debate.
• Next Steps: The bill is currently under consideration in the Senate, where it has been referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Conclusion

The Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act represents a proactive approach to safeguarding U.S. communications networks from potential foreign threats. By mandating transparency regarding foreign ownership, the legislation seeks to bolster national security and protect the privacy of American citizens.