S. 3360: Feasibility Review of Emerging Equipment for Digital Open Media Act

This bill, known as the Feasibility Review of Emerging Equipment for Digital Open Media Act (FREEDOM Act), aims to require the U.S. Secretary of State to prepare a report regarding internet freedom in Iran. The report must be submitted within 120 days of the bill's enactment and will be directed to relevant Senate and House committees. Here are the key points of what the bill entails:

Objectives of the Report

• The report will update and supplement a prior report required under the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025.
• It will address multiple aspects related to internet access and telecommunications in Iran.

Content Requirements

The report will need to include the following information:

• Feasibility of Direct-to-Cell Wireless Communications:

  It will assess the possibility of using direct-to-cell wireless communications technologies to enhance internet access for Iranian citizens. This assessment will cover:

  • Technical considerations
  • Regulatory issues
  • Security concerns
• Analysis of Technological Challenges:

  The report will analyze how different factors, such as drone technology and signal jamming, could affect the potential for these communications systems in Iran. This will include:

  • Impact on feasibility
  • Security issues
  • Economic aspects
  • Resilience of communications systems
• Survey of Telecommunications Providers:

  There will be a survey of telecommunications service providers in Iran, which will include:

  • Whether the providers are state-owned or state-controlled.
  • The degree of foreign investment or participation in these providers.
  • Implications of ownership for communications freedom and censorship.
• Additional Relevant Information:

  The report will provide any other relevant insights to evaluate the risks and opportunities associated with both terrestrial and non-terrestrial communication technologies in Iran.

Format of the Report

The completed report will be submitted in an unclassified form, meaning it will be accessible to the public, although it may include a classified annex containing sensitive information.

Implications

This bill is intended to provide a comprehensive update on the communications landscape in Iran, particularly focusing on how emerging technologies could enhance internet freedom amidst the existing challenges.

Relevant Companies

• None found.