Search Results for keywords:"national security"

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has set up rules to protect US communications networks from equipment considered a national security threat. Specifically, they are mandating that carriers using federal funds remove and replace risky equipment, which includes creating a reimbursement program to help small service providers cover the costs. This program prioritizes funding based on the size of the provider and the type of network equipment being replaced. A carefully monitored process ensures transparency and accountability, including regular updates and compliance checks, to prevent misuse of the funds.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is planning to modify its Partner-Vetting System, a system used to vet directors, officers, and employees of non-governmental organizations seeking funds from USAID. The system collects personal data to ensure that USAID’s funds do not inadvertently support individuals or entities posing a risk to national security. Changes include removing certain categories of individuals from its coverage and clarifying details in the system’s records. USAID invites the public to submit comments on the proposed changes by February 12, 2021.

The Executive Order 13981, issued by President Donald J. Trump, focuses on protecting the United States from security risks associated with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) made by foreign adversaries. The order outlines steps to prevent the use of taxpayer money for buying UAS that present security threats, calls for assessments of current government UAS use, and encourages prioritizing domestically produced UAS. It defines "covered UAS" as those manufactured or containing components from nations like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea and emphasizes examining how these systems are used by federal agencies. The order also directs agencies to consider replacing these UAS in future budgets.

In a new interim final rule, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced changes to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) regarding advanced computing and semiconductor manufacturing items. These changes include new controls on semiconductor equipment, high bandwidth memory, and software keys. The rule aims to limit specific exports to countries of concern, such as China, due to national security risks. The refinements include foreign direct product rules, license requirements, and clarifications to assist compliance.

The Executive Order 14237 aims to address activities by the law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP (Paul Weiss) that the administration deems harmful to national interests. It directs immediate suspension of security clearances for Paul Weiss employees and an evaluation of existing government contracts with the firm. The order also outlines measures to prevent future business with the firm unless it aligns with American interests and instructs agencies to limit interactions with Paul Weiss employees when national security is a concern. Additionally, it emphasizes the administration's commitment to eliminating racial discrimination in federal contracting practices.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is inviting applications for vessels to join the Cable Security Fleet (CSF). This program aims to keep a ready fleet of U.S.-owned cable vessels for national security and global positioning in the submarine cable market. To apply, potential participants must meet specific citizenship and technical requirements and submit applications by February 4, 2021. Once selected, participants will form agreements with MARAD to operate these vessels in the commercial cable industry and make them available to the U.S. Government during emergencies.

The Department of Defense has announced an arms sale to Egypt, involving light tactical vehicle chassis and related equipment, worth an estimated $200 million. This sale aims to enhance Egypt's military capability, supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security by strengthening a key ally in the Middle East. The sale will not disrupt the military balance in the region and will include U.S. support for operations and maintenance training. The main contractor for this project is AM General, LLC, and there are no offset agreements involved.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has issued a final rule amending the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to clarify the scope of export controls on certain vaccines and medical products. These changes are based on decisions from the Australia Group's June 2019 Plenary meeting. The aim is to ensure greater consistency and harmonization of international export controls, enhancing national security by preventing dual-use items from contributing to the development of chemical or biological weapons. The rule modifies controls on vaccines containing specific biological agents to only require licenses for export to a limited number of countries of concern.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a final rule concerning the review of transactions involving information and communications technology and services (ICTS) linked to foreign adversaries. This rule establishes procedures to evaluate such transactions for risks to national security, potentially prohibiting them or requiring mitigation measures if they pose undue threats. The rule includes new definitions and procedural updates to clarify transaction reviews, address public comments, and streamline processes. The measures aim to safeguard the ICTS supply chain from foreign threats, enhance transparency, and provide guidelines for penalties if regulations are violated.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is reviewing and updating its rules for submarine cables to better protect national security, ensure regulatory clarity, and streamline the licensing process. The FCC proposes new requirements including more frequent reporting, updated cybersecurity measures, and stricter ownership transparency rules for cable operators. The aim is to address evolving threats and manage risks associated with submarine cables, which are critical to global communications. Public comments on these proposals are invited, reflecting a commitment to consider stakeholder input in shaping the final rules.