H.R. 906: Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

This bill, known as the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act, aims to increase transparency regarding foreign ownership in communication-related entities in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of its main provisions:

Publication of a List of Entities

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is directed to publish a list within 120 days of the bill's enactment. This list will include any entity that:

• Holds a license issued by the FCC under specific sections of the Communications Act of 1934 or the Cable Landing Licensing Act.
• Has foreign ownership that could pose a national security concern, as determined by appropriate national security agencies.

Rulemaking to Identify Additional Entities

Within 18 months of the legislation passing, the FCC must establish rules to identify more entities that hold FCC authorizations or licenses not covered in the initial provision. This will include looking at entities with foreign ownership interests that need to be reported to the FCC.

After the rulemaking, the FCC will then add these new entities to the published list within one year.

Annual Updates

The FCC is required to update this list at least once a year to ensure it reflects current information regarding foreign ownership and any new entities that may have been identified.

Definitions and Exemptions

The bill includes specific definitions, such as what constitutes a "covered entity" (which includes governments or organizations from certain foreign countries) and clarifies the role of the FCC as the leading authority in implementing this act. Furthermore, the bill states that information collection related to this act will not be subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act, thus streamlining the process of gathering required information.

Relevant Companies

None found