This bill would cut off U.S. foreign assistance to any government that restricts free speech in ways that would violate the First Amendment if done in the United States, or that pressures social media platforms and news outlets to censor such speech. The Secretary of State would determine which countries qualify for this aid ban and must publish those determinations in the Federal Register. The bill applies to all U.S. assistance authorized under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 starting immediately after enactment. The President can waive the restrictions for national security reasons, but must notify Congress at least 15 days in advance and provide a report explaining the waiver, which country receives it, the amount of aid involved, and how long it will last. The legislation affects foreign governments and their officials, as well as any contracts the U.S. has with nations that engage in such censorship practices.
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