§8754a Strategy and Grant Program to Promote Internet Freedom in Iran

Summary

The Secretary of State must create a plan, within 90 days after December 23, 2024, to help people and groups in Iran get better access to information online. The plan must cover things like how Iranians use virtual private networks (VPNs); how much reliable internet people have without VPNs, including censorship and surveillance; ways to make VPNs more available; other tools that can get around government limits; how tech providers reach the open internet; how likely Iran is to shut off all internet access; and ways to work around internet blackouts. The Secretary must send an updated version of the plan to the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee within 120 days after December 23, 2024, review the plan at least twice a year, and send more updates if changes are needed. The plan must be unclassified, but it can include a classified annex. The Secretary of State, with USAID and the Open Technology Fund when appropriate, may give grants or contracts to private groups to support a more open, secure internet in Iran and protect online rights. Funded programs should expand internet access and tools, research repressive tactics, teach digital safety, and work with private companies. Grants must be chosen using evidence. New technologies made with grant money must get a full security check. Congress may provide $15,000,000 for the Open Technology Fund for each of fiscal years 2025 and 2026, and that money can be used until it is spent.