Communications and Technology Transparency Act of 2026

Section 5 adds subsection (e)(2) to section 2 of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, which requires the Commission and relevant agency heads to submit an unclassified report to Congress at least 7 days before placing any technology or service on the covered list, explaining the specific national security concern. This provides positive accountability and transparency for the people by ensuring our elected officials explain their national security decisions.

Section 5 adds subsection (e)(1) to section 2 of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, which limits the placement of technology or services on the covered list strictly to entities controlled by a foreign adversary. This ensures that government restrictions target actual foreign adversaries, protecting everyday people from arbitrary domestic network restrictions.

Section 7 adds subsection (g) to section 2 of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, requiring the Commission and the Secretary of Commerce to meet every 90 days with national security agencies to consult and coordinate on the covered list, followed by an annual report to Congress. This forces government agencies to work together effectively and keep the public informed through Congress.

Section 8 inserts a new section 10 into the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, which states that no covered entity or its affiliates that produce or provide covered information and communications technology or service may obtain, hold, or control any authorization, license, or other grant of authority issued by the Commission. This could burden certain businesses and limit choices for individuals if specific technology providers are entirely cut off from holding necessary licenses.

Section 4 amends section 2(d)(1) of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 to mandate that the Commission update the covered list not less frequently than once every 6 months. Frequent updates could create a heavy administrative burden for the government and cause continuous compliance challenges for individuals and businesses operating in the communications sector.