Rep. Earl L. Carter, US Representative for Georgia's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Earl L. Carter, US Representative for Georgia's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
The House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries conducted a legislative hearing regarding the Undersea Cable Protection Act. This bill, introduced by Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter from Georgia and Senator Marsha Blackburn from Tennessee, aims to bolster national security and enhance global connectivity by safeguarding the United States' submarine cable infrastructure.
The proposed legislation seeks to achieve its objectives by ensuring diversity in routing for national security purposes, eliminating redundant permitting laws, and promoting timely deployment and maintenance of submarine cables. Additionally, it maintains existing local, state, and federal permitting regulations while protecting national marine sanctuaries.
Representative Carter stated, “President Trump has a mandate to strengthen our national security and increase efficiency. The Undersea Cable Protection Act advances these priorities by safeguarding our nation’s submarine cables against attacks from hostile foreign nations and streamlining the permitting process. I am proud to partner with Senator Blackburn on this vital legislation that will make the world safer and more connected than ever before.”
Senator Blackburn emphasized the importance of undersea networks by saying, “Undersea networks are a major component of global connectivity and our digital economy. The Undersea Cable Protection Act would ensure that undersea cables can be built and preserved without duplicative, burdensome, and unnecessary federal regulations.”
The bill has garnered support from various industry stakeholders such as the International Connectivity Coalition, INCOMPAS, Telecommunications Industry Association, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
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