Senate bill targets foreign threats to undersea internet cables

What does this do?

S 3249 would establish a new interagency committee drawing together the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security to coordinate security, permitting, construction, and repair of undersea fiber-optic cables. The bill also grants the President authority to impose sanctions, including asset freezes and visa bans, on foreign individuals or entities that intentionally damage these cables in ways that harm U.S. national security. Additionally, it requires regular congressional reports on cable-related activities by China and Russia, including their deep-ocean cutting capabilities and ship movements near cable networks.

Who does it affect?

Federal agencies would be required to build new coordination systems and hire dedicated undersea cable experts, including new State Department staff and a stronger U.S. presence in the International Cable Protection Committee. Private companies that own and operate undersea cables would gain a clearer government point of contact and improved access to threat information.

Why does it matter?

The cables covered by this bill carry most of the world's internet traffic across oceans, and Congress has identified hostile foreign actors as a potential threat to their integrity. Disruption to these cables could affect global internet connectivity that millions of people rely on daily.

Where does it stand?