Feasibility Review of Emerging Equipment for Digital Open Media Act; FREEDOM Act
Summary
H.R. 6469, also known as the FREEDOM Act, mandates a report on internet freedom in Iran. The report, to be prepared by the Secretary of State in consultation with the FCC and the Treasury Department, will update and supplement a previous report from the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. It focuses on the feasibility of using various technologies to expand internet access for the Iranian people.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to gather information and assess the potential for expanding internet access in Iran. This assessment includes evaluating the use of direct-to-cell wireless communications, drone-based platforms, and signal jamming technologies. The report will also analyze the role and control of telecommunications service providers in Iran.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a comprehensive assessment of internet freedom in Iran.
- Explores technological solutions to expand internet access.
- Analyzes the impact of various technologies on internet freedom.
- Offers insights into the telecommunications landscape in Iran.
- Informs future policy decisions regarding internet freedom in Iran.
Potential Disadvantages
- The report itself does not guarantee any concrete action to improve internet freedom.
- The feasibility assessment may reveal significant challenges and limitations.
- The report's findings could be used to justify actions that may have unintended consequences.
- The focus on technology may overshadow other important aspects of internet freedom, such as censorship and surveillance.
- The report's classified annex may limit public access to important information.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the First Amendment's principles of freedom of speech and expression, as it seeks to promote internet freedom in Iran. While the Constitution primarily applies to the US, promoting these values abroad can be seen as consistent with its spirit. Article 1, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, could be interpreted as providing a basis for this type of legislation.
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).