Robert Menendez (D-NJ)
AI for Secure Networks Act
A Democratic bill with 1 Republican cosponsor · See all 5 cosponsors
Last activity — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 37 - 0.
Introduced, nothing more yet
Formally proposed, and not yet handed to a committee.
Nearly every bill is sent to a committee within days. Introduction alone is not a sign of support, of momentum, or of any likelihood of passing — any member may introduce any bill.
Its path through Congress
- Introduced
What this bill would do
This bill, known as the "AI for Secure Networks Act," directs the Secretary of Commerce to study how artificial intelligence impacts the security of telecommunications networks. The study aims to analyze how AI can improve networks through functions like threat detection, resiliency, and energy efficiency. It also looks at AI's role in Open Radio Access Network technology and virtualized security technology. Additionally, the study must examine any risks AI technology poses to network security. The Secretary is required to consult with the FCC and industry stakeholders during this process. Finally, a report of the findings must be submitted to Congress within one year, following a period for public comment.
Yes· 3 of 11
- Scored +7
Does this better protect the country from computer attacks?
The bill explicitly studies using AI for real-time threat detection and network security controls.
- Scored +3
Does this give people more control over their personal data?
The focus on secure networks and zero trust security potentially enhances the privacy of transmitted data.
- Scored +3
Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see?
The bill requires public comment on the report before it is submitted to Congress.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Improved Network Security: The study examines how AI can facilitate real-time threat and malware detection and zero trust security solutions, which could lead to safer communications (Section 2(a)(1)(A)).
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Increased Network Reliability: The analysis includes how AI might lead to increased resiliency and interoperability within telecommunications networks (Section 2(a)(1)(B)).
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Energy Efficiency: The bill directs a study on how AI technology may be used to improve energy efficiency in networks (Section 2(a)(1)(C)).
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Enhanced Network Controls: The study looks into using AI to improve network security controls through firewalls and network segmentation (Section 2(a)(4)).
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Public Input Opportunity: The Secretary must provide an opportunity for public comment regarding the study's report before it is submitted to Congress (Section 2(c)(2)).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Security Risks: The study is required to investigate any risks that artificial intelligence technology poses for the security of telecommunications networks (Section 2(a)(5)).
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Tap or hover a score for the reason it gave.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Does this better protect the country from computer attacks? — The bill explicitly studies using AI for real-time threat detection and network security controls.
- Education And Technology
- Does this give people more control over their personal data? — The focus on secure networks and zero trust security potentially enhances the privacy of transmitted data. Does this put more money into scientific research? — The bill mandates a study and consultation on R&D activities related to AI and network security. Does this get reliable internet to more people? — Increased resiliency and interoperability of networks could indirectly improve the stability of internet access.
- Governance And Ideology
- Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see? — The bill requires public comment on the report before it is submitted to Congress. Does this give the federal government more power? — Assigns additional study and reporting responsibilities to the Secretary of Commerce.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Would business owners be better off under this? — Telecommunications providers and AI firms may benefit from government-led security research and recommendations. Would people in rural areas be better off under this? — Resilient telecommunications networks provide significant benefit to rural areas.
- Economy And Finance
- Does this give people more protection from unfair business practices? — Study aims to improve the security of telecommunications networks, potentially protecting consumer data. Is this likely to grow the economy? — Study of AI efficiencies in networks could lead to long-term economic improvements in infrastructure.
- Environment Energy And Infrastructure
- Does this invest in rural communities? — Improving telecommunications security and resiliency can benefit rural network infrastructure.
- 9/16/2026
- Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 37 - 0.
- 9/2/2026
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 9/1/2026
- Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
- 3/26/2026
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 1/30/2026
- Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.
- 3 Cosponsors added.
- Introduced in House
Troy CarterDemocrat · Louisiana
Greg LandsmanDemocrat · Ohio
Jennifer McClellanDemocrat · Virginia
August PflugerRepublican · Texas
Eugene VindmanDemocrat · Virginia