Rep. Wilson Introduces the Strategic Subsea Cables Act to Protect Global Data Lines
The Strategic Subsea Cables Act of 2026 is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It has been sent to four different House committees for review and is waiting for further action. The bill is considered active as it moves through these initial committee assignments.
Part of: story →The bill has bipartisan support from leaders on the Foreign Affairs Committee, but it deals with complex sanctions and multiple agencies which can slow things down.
Foreign nationals sanctioned under this bill for involvement in undersea cable sabotage would have their U.S. visas immediately revoked. This applies to anyone found responsible for or facilitating sabotage, including vessel operators, insurers, and logistics providers. The revocation takes effect immediately and cancels all other valid entry documents.
“The visa or other entry documentation of an alien described in subsection (a) shall be revoked, regardless of when such visa or other entry documentation is or was issued.”
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committees on the Judiciary, Intelligence (Permanent Select), and Energy and Commerce, 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.
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
On March 27, 2026, Reps. Joe Wilson and Gregory Meeks introduced the 'Strategic Subsea Cables Act of 2026,' a bipartisan bill to secure undersea fiber-optic cables from sabotage by Russia and China. The bill mandates sanctions and tasks the ODNI with identifying those responsible for past attacks.
Reps. Joe Wilson and Gregory Meeks introduced a House companion to a Senate bill that would require the president to sanction foreign entities and individuals who intentionally damage subsea fiber-optic cables, marking a significant step toward protecting critical undersea infrastructure.
The Strategic Subsea Cables Act of 2026 aims to enhance U.S. engagement in the security and maintenance of subsea cables. Key provisions include sanctions for intentional damage, the creation of an interagency committee, and improved threat information sharing with private operators.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Strategic Subsea Cables Act of 2026
Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.