Blackburn Introduces Legislation to Strengthen National Security by Protecting Undersea Cables

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after introducing the Undersea Cable Protection Act, which would strengthen national security and global connectivity by safeguarding the United States' submarine cable infrastructure:

"Undersea cables are a critical component in our digital economy protecting America's national security," said Senator Blackburn. "The Undersea Cable Protection Act would ensure that undersea cables can be built and preserved without duplicative, burdensome, and unnecessary federal regulations."

U.S. Representative Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (R-Ga.) led the introduction in the House of Representatives.

THE UNDERSEA CABLE PROTECTION ACT

The Undersea Cable Protection Act would strengthen national security and safeguard the United States' submarine cable infrastructure by eliminating duplicative permitting laws and promoting the deployment and maintenance of submarine cables.

ENDORSEMENTS

The Undersea Cable Protection Act is endorsed by the International Connectivity Coalition, the Internet and Competitive Networks Association, and the Telecommunications Industry Association:

"For the United States to remain a global leader in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, we must invest in secure, modern subsea cable networks that enable these breakthroughs ," said Ansley Erdel on behalf of the International Connectivity Coalition."This legislation is not only about protecting infrastructure - it is about securing America's position at the forefront of the digital economy."

Click here for bill text.