Secure Equipment Act of 2021 (H.R. 3919)

Summary

Tells the FCC to stop approving communication devices from companies that are considered a threat to national security.

What problem does this solve?

The FCC could still approve equipment from companies seen as security risks, creating a loophole. This law closes that loophole by ordering the FCC to deny applications for any gear on the national security threat list.

What does this law do?

Blocks approval of insecure equipment

Clarifies that the FCC will no longer review or approve applications for any communications equipment that is on the government's national security threat list.

Requires new FCC rules

Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to create new rules within one year to update its equipment approval process.

Does not revoke past approvals

Specifies that equipment authorizations granted before the new rules are adopted will not be automatically revoked, even if the equipment is on the threat list.

Allows future review of old equipment

Preserves the FCC's power to separately investigate and possibly revoke old equipment approvals if they are found to be a security risk.

Who does this affect?

Telecommunications companies
Foreign technology manufacturers
Federal Communications Commission

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens national security

Prevents communications equipment from companies considered a security risk from being sold or used in the United States, protecting networks from potential spying or disruption by foreign governments.

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Could increase costs for network providers

Blocks access to potentially cheaper equipment from certain foreign companies. This might raise costs for telecommunication companies, which could be passed on to consumers through higher prices for services.

When does this start?

The Federal Communications Commission must create its new rules within one year of the law being passed on November 11, 2021.

FCC rulemaking deadline

The FCC must adopt new rules for its equipment authorization program no later than one year after November 11, 2021.