S.Amdt. 5902

SA 5902, introduced by Mr. McCormick and Ms. Rosen, seeks to add a new section to bill S. 4784 called the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026.

The purpose of this amendment is to establish a United States policy that recognizes the Iranian people's right to self-determination and works to protect their human rights. It specifically focuses on breaking through the Iranian government's censorship to provide citizens with open, uncensored internet access and communication tools.

The amendment aims to add the following to the bill:

• Internet Freedom: It gives the Secretary of State the lead role in promoting internet freedom in Iran. This includes developing and deploying technologies to bypass internet shutdowns, such as VPNs, mesh networking, and exploring direct-to-cell wireless communications.

• Accountability and Sanctions: It calls for the full enforcement of sanctions against those in the regime who violate human rights and their family members.

• Support for Civil Society: It requires a strategy to support independent Iranian journalists and civil society through grants for equipment, training, and secure communication platforms.

• Cybersecurity: It directs the creation of programs to provide cybersecurity training and digital-safety tools to human rights defenders and journalists in Iran.

• Oversight: It mandates reports from the Secretary of State and the Comptroller General (GAO) to track spending and evaluate how effective these programs are in helping the Iranian people.