Summary of HR 1737: Trans-Atlantic Submarine Fiber Optic Cable Assessment

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 1737

Introduced On: February 27, 2025

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

Primary Sponsor: Delegate Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI)

Cosponsor: Representative Russ Fulcher (R-ID)

Purpose and Intent

HR 1737 aims to direct the Secretary of Commerce to prepare and submit a comprehensive report to Congress assessing the value, cost, and feasibility of establishing a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable. This cable would connect the contiguous United States, the United States Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria. The initiative is intended to enhance national security and improve telecommunications infrastructure between the U.S. and Africa.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several specific requirements for the report, which must be submitted within one year of the bill's enactment. The assessment will include:

1. Digital and National Security: Evaluation of the security implications and economic opportunities associated with the proposed cable.
2. Current Infrastructure: Analysis of the lifespan and security of existing submarine cables connecting the U.S. Virgin Islands to the mainland.
3. Telecommunications Readiness: Assessment of the telecommunications infrastructure in the U.S. Virgin Islands to support the new cable.
4. Engagement with Trusted Entities: Exploration of potential partnerships with trusted entities for cable deployment, including geopolitical and economic benefits.
5. Investment Opportunities: Identification of connectivity opportunities to maximize U.S. economic investments.
6. Data Center Feasibility: Evaluation of establishing a high-security data center in the U.S. Virgin Islands for military and national security communications.
7. Current Cable State: Review of the existing submarine fiber optic cables linked to U.S. telecommunications infrastructure.
8. Additional Relevant Matters: Any other issues deemed appropriate by the Secretary of Commerce.

The report must be submitted in an unclassified form, although it may include a classified annex if necessary.

Impact

The legislation is expected to impact various stakeholders, including:

• Telecommunications Providers: Companies involved in the deployment and maintenance of submarine cables.
• Government Entities: U.S. military and intelligence agencies that rely on secure communications.
• Economic Development: Potential for increased investment and economic opportunities in the U.S. Virgin Islands and African nations.

Procedural Timeline

• February 27, 2025: Bill introduced in the House.
• March 4, 2025: Committee on Energy and Commerce ordered the bill to be reported favorably.
• June 12, 2025: Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce (H. Rept. 119-155).
• June 23, 2025: Passed in the House by voice vote and sent to the Senate.
• June 24, 2025: Received in the Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Conclusion

HR 1737 represents a strategic initiative to enhance U.S. telecommunications infrastructure and security by exploring the feasibility of a new trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable. The report mandated by this bill will provide critical insights into the potential benefits and challenges associated with this significant infrastructure project.