Rep. Claudia Tenney (NY-24) has joined Rep. Dave Min (CA-47) in introducing the Feasibility Review of Emerging Equipment for Digital Open Media (FREEDOM) Act, a bipartisan proposal that would require several federal agencies to evaluate whether emerging direct-to-cell technologies could help expand internet access for people in Iran.
A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Sens. Dave McCormick (PA) and Jacky Rosen (NV). The House legislation has additional cosponsors, including Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-3), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), James Walkinshaw (VA-11), and Rob Wittman (VA-1).
The FREEDOM Act would direct the State Department, working with the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of the Treasury, to conduct a full feasibility review of direct-to-cell satellite technology. Supporters say the technology could allow smartphones to connect directly to satellites, potentially bypassing government-controlled networks in countries where internet access is restricted.
Under the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, the State Department was already required to study ways to promote internet freedom in Iran. The report submitted under that mandate did not fully assess direct-to-cell tools, prompting lawmakers to call for a more comprehensive review.
Internet restrictions, shutdowns, and surveillance remain common in Iran, making communication difficult during periods of political unrest. The proposed legislation aims to provide Congress with a clearer understanding of how emerging technologies could support uncensored communication.
In announcing the bill, Tenney said the measure is intended to ensure the federal government evaluates new technologies that could help counter censorship. Min noted that many of his constituents with family in Iran face challenges communicating during government-imposed internet disruptions.
The bill will next proceed through committee consideration.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
