FREEDOM Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
The FREEDOM Act requires the State Department to study how new tech can help Iranians access the open internet when their government shuts it down.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: Iranian protesters, civil society activists, satellite internet companies, U.S. tech firms making circumvention tools.
- Loses: Iran's government and state-controlled telecom providers that block citizens' internet access.
What it does
- Requires a Secretary of State report within 120 days of enactment.
- Assesses Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite internet effectiveness during January 2026 Iranian protests.
- Studies direct-to-cell wireless tech, drone platforms, and resistance to signal jamming.
- Reviews commercial off-the-shelf tools for an existing grant program under 22 U.S.C. 8754a.
Why should I care?
Supporters say helping Iranians get online supports democracy and human rights when regimes censor the web. Critics argue government-backed circumvention tech could escalate tensions with Iran or expose users to surveillance risks. An alternative being debated: focusing on private-sector solutions instead of federal grants. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.