Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026
Rep. Lawler Introduces Bill to Bypass Iranian Internet Censorship and Seize Oligarch Assets
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- The bill aims to help people in Iran get around government internet shutdowns. It directs the military's innovation team to develop low-cost tools like satellite internet and mesh networks so citizens can stay connected even when the government tries to cut off the web.
- A new task force would be created within the Treasury Department to track down and seize expensive homes, luxury goods, and bank accounts belonging to corrupt Iranian officials and their families. This group would work to freeze these assets and potentially use them to help the Iranian people.
- The plan increases funding for internet freedom programs to $30 million every year through 2030. It also requires the government to investigate and report on the personal wealth of Iran’s top leaders and wealthy business owners who have close ties to the government.
- Members of Congress would gain the power to name specific people they suspect of human rights abuses or helping with internet censorship. Once named, the White House would have 120 days to investigate those individuals and decide whether to hit them with financial sanctions.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
The bill explicitly condemns the Iranian regime's repression of LGBTQ rights and calls for accountability for human rights violators. While the bill's direct effects are focused overseas, the findings and sanctions framework signal U.S. policy support for LGBTQ protections as a human rights priority, which could influence broader diplomatic efforts.
Milestones
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
3 articles
Lawler, Sherman bill targets finances of Iranian oligarchs and supports internet freedom
Reps. Mike Lawler and Brad Sherman introduced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom and Accountability Act to disrupt the finances of the Iranian regime. The bill creates an 'Iran Kleptocracy Initiative' at Treasury to seize assets and tasks the DIU with developing internet-shutdown workarounds.
Bipartisan House legislation aims to break through communications restrictions in Iran
The new bill authorizes the Defense Innovation Unit to develop low-cost, scalable technologies to overcome internet blackouts and censorship. It also establishes an Iran Kleptocracy Initiative to investigate and disrupt the financial networks of Iranian officials and oligarchs.
Bipartisan bill aims to expand internet access in Iran
Sens. Dave McCormick and Jacky Rosen introduced the Senate companion to the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom and Accountability Act. The measure places efforts to provide internet access under the Secretary of State and includes tools like direct-to-cell satellite technology.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
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