Securing Global Telecommunications Act

The Securing Global Telecommunications Act aims to bolster global telecommunications security by requiring the Secretary of State to develop a comprehensive strategy within 90 days. This strategy, known as the "Strategy to Secure Global Telecommunications Infrastructure," will focus on promoting the use of secure telecommunication infrastructure in countries outside the United States. It is designed to counter the expansive presence of companies linked to the Chinese Communist Party, such as Huawei, and ensure American leadership in strategic technology industries. The strategy will include specific sections addressing mobile networks , advocating for trusted Open RAN technologies, financing "rip-and-replace" projects, and fostering multilateral cooperation to deploy trusted wireless networks. It will also cover data centers , incentivizing the choice of trusted providers through financing mechanisms, and sixth (and future) generation technologies (6G) , promoting allied market leadership and increasing buy-in from developing countries. Furthermore, the strategy will address low-Earth orbit satellites, aerostats, and stratospheric balloons to ensure rapid internet connectivity in emergencies. In addition to the strategy, the bill mandates two reports from the Secretary of State within 90 days of enactment. One report will detail malign Russian and Chinese strategies and efforts to expand the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) mandate to cover internet governance and advance authoritarian interests. The second report will identify opportunities for greater multilateral coordination with allies and partners to promote secure information and communications technology infrastructure globally, including through joint financing and diplomatic efforts.