The U.S. House of Representatives on Jan. 8 approved a bipartisan resolution sponsored by U.S. Rep. Bill Flores (R-TX) expressing that all stakeholders deploying 5G communications infrastructure consider adherence to the Prague Proposals, an internationally agreed-upon cybersecurity framework.
“Recommendations from the Prague Proposals will guide allied countries and industry leaders to secure the development of 5G network architecture so that consumers can realize the full potential of the next generation of high-speed communications,” Rep. Flores said.
House Resolution (H.Res.) 575 was introduced in September 2019 by Rep. Flores and U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL). It encourages the president and federal agencies to promote international trade and security policies that are consistent with the Prague Proposals, which are a set of recommendations developed in May 2019 by government officials from 32 countries, the European Union and NATO during the Prague 5G Security Conference stipulating that nations consider them as they design, construct and administer their 5G telecommunications infrastructure.
If enacted, H.Res. 575 also would ensure American consumers are protected from countries like China, which may use their telecom companies for malicious purposes, according to a resolution summary provided by the lawmakers.
“H.Res. 575 is an important bipartisan resolution expressing the House of Representatives’ strong support for the Prague Proposal’s 5G security recommendations,” said Rep. Flores, adding that 5G networks have the capacity to support economic growth via innovative technologies like telemedicine and high-speed rural broadband.
“Nothing is more essential than being at the forefront in the deployment and development of 5G technologies,” said Rep. Soto. “I’m proud to have worked with Congressman Flores to ensure we can continue to improve internet connectivity and security for our districts.”
The resolution now heads to the U.S. Senate for action.