Dr. Joyce Introduces Legislation to Protect Our Nation’s Communications Systems from Foreign Influence

Washington, D.C. – Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) and Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3), have introduced the Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act, to combat the influence of foreign-made technology in our nation’s high-speed internet system. 

“As we continue to expand connectivity for Americans in rural communities, we also need to ensure that our national security is protected,” said Rep. John Joyce, M.D.“Fighting to protect our communications systems from malign influences, like the Chinese Communist Party, must be at the forefront of our policy making. I am proud to lead this legislation that takes a common sense step towards securing our internet infrastructure and cutting our reliance on Chinese companies.”

“Our bipartisan legislation is a step toward strengthening America’s information and communications technology (ICT) supply chains to ensure that our economy is not reliant on untrusted vendors,” said Rep. Susie Lee. “Businesses of all sizes, as well as education and healthcare industries, rely heavily on ICT, so it’s critical that America remains competitive in the sector.”

Background:

• The Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act authorizes a study by the U.S. Department of Commerce to investigate whether technologies from Chinese companies, like Huawei and ZTE, are part of our telecommunications network.
• This legislation also requires the Department of Commerce to provide an update to Congress on the resources necessary to fully source our broadband infrastructure domestically or from our allies.