H.R.7521 - Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act

Background and Context:

The bill comes amidst growing concerns over the potential national security risks posed by Chinese-owned apps like TikTok, which collect vast amounts of user data. US lawmakers and officials have expressed fears that such data could be accessed by the Chinese government and used for espionage or influence operations. The Trump administration previously attempted to ban TikTok, but the effort was blocked by federal courts.

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Supporters and Opposition:

Supporters of the bill, including many Republicans and some Democrats, argue that it is necessary to protect Americans' privacy and national security. They contend that apps like TikTok pose unacceptable risks, and the US must take decisive action to counter the threat. Opponents, including civil liberties advocates and some tech industry groups, argue that the bill is overly broad and could set a dangerous precedent for government overreach. They warn that the ban could infringe on free speech and hurt the US tech sector by stifling innovation and competition.

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Legislative Process and Outlook:

The bill passed the House with bipartisan support and now heads to the Senate for consideration. However, its prospects for passage in the Senate remain uncertain, as some senators have expressed reservations about the bill's scope and potential unintended consequences. If approved by the Senate, the bill would need to be signed by the President to become law.

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Impact and Implications:

If enacted, the bill would significantly impact the US tech industry and millions of American users of foreign adversary-controlled apps. Companies like TikTok would be forced to divest their US operations or face a nationwide ban, potentially disrupting the social media landscape and sparking legal challenges. The bill could also strain US-China relations and invite retaliation against US companies operating in China. More broadly, the bill reflects the growing tension between the US and China in the tech sphere and the increasingly assertive stance of the US government in regulating foreign-owned technology companies on national security grounds. As the two superpowers compete for technological supremacy , balancing innovation, privacy, and security will likely remain a key challenge for policymakers in the years ahead.

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H.R.7521 In the News:

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Grassroots Gameplan: Mobilizing Constituents in Critical Districts

To effectively influence the legislative process surrounding Bill 7521, it's crucial to mobilize constituents in districts that can have the greatest impact on lawmakers' decisions. By targeting specific committees, cosponsors, non-cosponsors, and influential caucuses or coalitions, advocacy groups can focus their efforts and resources for maximum effect.

Committees

1. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation legislative districts:

   • Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair
   • Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), Ranking Member
   • Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
   • Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
   • Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI)
   • Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)

2. House Energy and Commerce Committee districts:

   • Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA-5), Chair
   • Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ-6), Ranking Member
   • Rep. Michael C. Burgess (R-TX-26)
   • Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA-18)
   • Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY-2)
   • Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA-6)

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Cosponsors

As of March 14, 2024, Bill 7521 has 32 Republican cosponsors and 22 Democratic cosponsors. Focus on districts represented by these cosponsors to thank them for their support and encourage them to champion the bill among their colleagues.

Non-cosponsors

Send letters to representatives and senators who have not yet cosponsored the bill, particularly those from the Republican party, as they may be more likely to support the legislation given the sponsor's affiliation. Some key non-cosponsors to target:

• Sen. John Thune (R-SD), Senate Minority Whip

• Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA-4), House Speaker

• Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA-1), House Majority Leader

  Thank Cosponsors, Inspire Them to Rally More Representatives

Influential caucuses or coalitions

Targeting members of Congress who belong to relevant caucuses or coalitions can help amplify your message and encourage them to influence their colleagues. Some key groups to consider:

• Congressional Internet Caucus
  • Sen. John Thune (R-SD), Co-Chair
  • Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA-16), Co-Chair
  • Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX-10), Co-Chair

By targeting these key districts and individuals, advocacy groups can maximize the impact of their grassroots letter-writing campaigns and work towards shaping the outcome of Bill 7521.

Send a Letter to Members of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee