Defend Our Networks Act

HR 6189, the Defend Our Networks Act, transfers $3.08 billion in unused pandemic relief funds to the Federal Communications Commission’s Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Program. It directs the Commission to use these funds - originating from the CARES Act, American Rescue Plan, and other 2020-2021 pandemic relief bills - to support efforts removing untrusted telecommunications equipment from networks. The funds merge with existing program appropriations and remain available until spent, with a 90-day deadline for transfer after enactment. This is a funding reallocation, not a new policy, affecting the FCC’s existing network security program.