Directs the State Department to lead U.S. efforts to expand internet access in Iran, update its strategy on circumvention tools, and support human rights documentation and Iranian civil society.

Official title: Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026

Next stop Senate floor: awaiting a vote

Timeline each lane is a chamber; dates pull from congress.gov actions

Senate

Introduced 24-FEB-2026

Referred 24-FEB-2026

Approved by committee 17-JUN-2026

Reported 27-JUL-2026

On the calendar 27-JUL-2026

Key points

Requires the State Department to update its strategy on VPNs and other tools for getting around internet censorship in Iran within 120 days of enactment.
Requires an assessment of direct-to-cell satellite connections and a survey of Iranian telecommunications providers, including whether they are state-owned or state-controlled.
Extends the Iran Internet Freedom Grant Program authorization through fiscal year 2030.
Requires a human rights assistance strategy and a GAO review of State Department NERD account spending on Iran programs for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
Requires the Secretary of State to ensure that the Iranian civilians who use supported digital-safety tools are protected in reporting, and states that nothing in the bill authorizes military force.

AI-generated from the Reported to Senate text of 27-JUL-2026 · verify · report an error

Official CRS summary

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Committee referrals (1)

Policy area

International Affairs

Sponsor David McCormick (R-PA) Cosponsors · 19

■ 10 D■ 9 R

10 Democrats

9 Republicans