S. 3900: Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026, aims to promote human rights, internet freedom, and accountability in Iran. It has several key components:

Findings and Policy Statements

The bill outlines findings that highlight ongoing human rights abuses in Iran, including:

• The suppression of basic rights by the Iranian government.
• Violent responses to peaceful protests demanding dignity, freedom, and economic opportunities.
• The importance of access to free expression and unfiltered information for Iranian citizens.

The bill declares U.S. policy to recognize the rights of the Iranian people, support the expansion of internet access in Iran, enforce sanctions against human rights violators, and collaborate with allies to deter violence against protesters.

Promotion of Internet Freedom

The Secretary of State is designated to lead efforts to promote internet freedom in Iran, which includes:

• Expanding access to information for Iranian citizens.
• Coordinating actions across federal departments regarding digital freedom initiatives in Iran.
• Updating strategies for internet access and freedom as required by previous legislation.
• Assessing and developing technologies to bypass internet restrictions.

Internet Freedom and Censorship Circumvention

The bill requires the Secretary of State to prepare an internet freedom report, which evaluates:

• The feasibility of using technologies like direct-to-cell communications to enhance internet access.
• Existing telecommunications service providers in Iran.
• How to circumvent regime-imposed internet censorship.

Funding for the Iran Internet Freedom Grant Program is increased, allowing for more resources to support internet freedom initiatives.

Identification of Human Rights Violators

The bill mandates the identification of foreign individuals supporting human rights violations in Iran. The President is required to assess these individuals and impose sanctions when appropriate.

Broadcasting and Human Rights Assistance Strategy

A strategy to enhance U.S. broadcasting efforts aimed at Iran must be developed, focusing on:

• Ensuring reliable access to unbiased news for the Iranian populace.
• Supporting independent media and enhancing their operational capabilities.

A report on Federal expenditures related to democracy initiatives in Iran will also be generated for legislative committees.

Cybersecurity Capacity Building

The bill calls for establishing programs to enhance cybersecurity for Iranian civil society, which includes:

• Training activists and journalists in cybersecurity.
• Providing access to digital safety tools like VPNs.

The Secretary of State is also tasked with tracking and reporting metrics related to these training programs.

Implementation Timeline

Various reports, strategies, and evaluations mandated by the bill must be completed within specified timeframes, generally within 120 to 180 days after enactment.

Exemptions

The bill specifies that its provisions do not authorize military force against Iran.

Relevant Companies

None found