Introduced in House — H.R. 7294

119th CONGRESS

2d Session

H. R. 7294

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

January 30, 2026

Mr. Menendez (for himself, Mr. Pfluger, Ms. McClellan, and Mr. Landsman) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce

A BILL

To study the impacts of artificial intelligence technology with respect to the security of telecommunications networks, and for other purposes.

Section 1. Short title

This Act may be cited as the AI for Secure Networks Act.

Sec. 2. Artificial intelligence technology and the security of telecommunications networks

(a) Study

The Secretary shall conduct a study on the impacts of artificial intelligence technology with respect to the security of telecommunications networks, which shall include an analysis of—

(1)

how artificial intelligence technology may be used to improve telecommunications networks, including by facilitating—

(A)

real-time threat and malware detection and zero trust security solutions;

(B)

increased resiliency and interoperability;

(C)

improved energy efficiency; and

(D)

integrated sensing and communications;

(2)

how artificial intelligence technology may be used in connection with Open Radio Access Network technology to increase the security of telecommunications networks;

(3)

how artificial intelligence technology may be used in connection with virtualized security technology to increase the security of telecommunications networks;

(4)

how artificial intelligence technology may be used to improve network security controls through firewalls and network segmentation; and

(5)

any risks artificial intelligence technology poses for the security of telecommunications networks.

(b) Consultation

For purposes of the study conducted under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with the Federal Communications Commission and industry stakeholders with respect to the use of artificial intelligence technology to improve the security of telecommunications networks, including with respect to research and development activities.

(c) Report

(1) In general

Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study conducted under subsection (a), which may include legislative recommendations.

(2) Opportunity for public comment

Prior to the submission of the report under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide an opportunity for public comment with respect to such report.

(d) Secretary defined

In this section, the term Secretary means the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information.