news

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) introduced bipartisan legislation to establish clear, standardized security requirements for submarine cables landing in the United States while streamlining the licensing process for trusted companies. The United States Submarine Cable Security Policy Act of 2026 will replace case-by-case security agreements with transparent, predictable rules.

Over 95% of international data flows through undersea cables. Foreign adversaries like China have been investing in undersea cables to compromise America's national and economic security. By setting uniform security standards, the bill strengthens our defenses against foreign threats while reducing regulatory uncertainty for American businesses.

"Our foreign adversaries are investing in the undersea cables that carry over 95% of our international data, and they're doing it to undermine our national and economic security. The United States Submarine Cable Security Policy Act of 2026 sets clear, consistent security standards so we can keep bad actors out of our critical infrastructure," said Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11).

“Submarine cables are critical to our economy and national security, carrying the internet and communications traffic that Americans rely on every day,” said Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08). “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Pfluger to establish a clear and consistent permitting process, provide greater certainty for responsible projects, and ensure that cables with potential national security risks receive the scrutiny they deserve.”