Bill > HR1737

This bill directs the Secretary of Commerce to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within one year, assessing the value, cost, and feasibility of constructing a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable connecting the contiguous United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria. The report must examine multiple aspects, including digital and national security implications, economic opportunities, the current lifespan and security of existing telecommunications infrastructure, potential engagement with trusted entities, and the possibility of establishing a high-security data center in the U.S. Virgin Islands for military and national security communications. The Secretary must consult with other federal departments and agencies, prepare the report in an unclassified format (with potential classified annexes), and cannot mandate data collection from private entities. The bill defines key terms such as "trusted" and "not trusted" entities based on national security risk assessments, and requires the report to be submitted to the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, with the goal of enhancing U.S. national security and exploring strategic telecommunications infrastructure opportunities.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1737/all-info