Bill > HR4240

This bill, known as the "Countering Untrusted Telecommunications Abroad Act," aims to address national security concerns related to telecommunications equipment and services, particularly those from China. The bill requires the Secretary of State to submit two key reports: first, an annual report on the presence of untrusted telecommunications equipment in the networks of U.S. allies with collective defense agreements, detailing the extent of equipment from companies like Huawei and ZTE in 5G networks and future telecommunications technologies; second, a report assessing the use of potentially compromised telecommunications equipment in U.S. embassies, including an evaluation of digital devices and potential security risks from Chinese telecommunications companies. The bill reflects Congress's concern that telecommunications infrastructure can be used as a tool for malign influence and economic coercion, particularly by the Chinese government. To counter these risks, the bill also directs the State Department to provide diplomatic and political support for trusted telecommunications infrastructure projects and promotes the development of telecommunications networks that do not rely on equipment from entities considered untrustworthy. The legislation defines "untrusted" telecommunications equipment as those that pose potential national security risks, drawing from existing definitions in the Secure and Trusted Communications Network Act of 2019.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4240/all-info