H.R. 4506: Securing Global Telecommunications Act

This bill, known as the Securing Global Telecommunications Act, aims to enhance the security and reliability of telecommunications infrastructure on a global scale. It focuses on several key objectives:

Promotion of Secure Telecommunications

The bill emphasizes the need for the U.S. government to take an active role in promoting American leadership in telecommunications technology. It highlights concerns about companies linked to foreign governments, specifically mentioning risks associated with the Chinese Communist Party and companies like Huawei, which are perceived to pose threats to national security.

Strategy Development

Within 90 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of State is required to develop a strategy called the "Strategy to Secure Global Telecommunications Infrastructure." This strategy's goal is to promote secure telecommunications in countries around the world, and it must include:

• An overview of efforts by non-U.S. countries to support trusted technologies in mobile networks.
• Information about financing mechanisms that assist countries in selecting reliable telecommunications vendors.
• Collaboration with private sector companies to counter the influence of certain international competitors.

Reports on International Developments

The bill also mandates the Secretary of State to prepare reports addressing specific issues:

• Strategies by Russia and China to expand their influence over international telecommunications, particularly through the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
• Opportunities for increased collaboration with allied nations to encourage secure telecommunications technologies.

Financial Coordination

The bill includes provisions for the identification of joint financial efforts that can help win projects for trusted telecommunications vendors. This aspect encourages the U.S. and its allies to support and invest in secure communications infrastructure globally.

Key Elements to Focus On

The developed strategy must include sections on:

• Mobile Networks: Promoting secure Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technologies and financing mechanisms for switching out untrusted equipment.
• Data Centers: Encouraging the choice of trusted data center vendors through financial incentives.
• Sixth-Generation Technologies (6G): Fostering international collaboration to maintain U.S. leadership in 6G networks.
• Emergency Communications: Working with private sector firms to ensure rapid internet connection capabilities in emergencies.

Multilateral Cooperation

The bill stresses the importance of multilateral cooperation with partners to promote secure telecommunications. It encourages diplomatic efforts to convince countries using untrusted vendors to transition to more secure communications solutions.

Relevant Companies

• HUAWEI: As a major telecommunications equipment provider with ties to the Chinese government, Huawei would likely face increased scrutiny and potential barriers in expanding its market presence in countries where U.S. influence is being asserted.