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S. 5562

BillFederalSenateIn Committee
A bill to develop and deploy firewall circumvention tools for the people of Hong Kong after the People's Republic of China violated its agreement under the Joint Declaration, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · September 24, 2026
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
Introduced
September 24, 2026
Cosponsors (1)
1D 0R
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Summary

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The Jimmy Lai Internet Freedom Act directs the U.S. government to develop and distribute tools that help people in Hong Kong bypass internet censorship and access blocked information online. The bill responds to China's implementation of national security laws and increased internet restrictions that have limited freedom of speech, press, and assembly in Hong Kong, citing the conviction of pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai as a key example. The legislation establishes Hong Kong-specific internet freedom programs within the State Department and the Open Technology Fund, authorizing $5 million annually to the Open Technology Fund and $10 million annually to the State Department's internet freedom office through fiscal year 2031, with both agencies working independently to develop and distribute firewall circumvention technology, virtual private networks, and digital security tools. The bill requires the State Department to submit a detailed strategic plan within 120 days outlining how the government will increase availability and distribution of these technologies in Hong Kong and coordinate efforts across federal agencies. The two programs may merge with broader China initiatives after September 30, 2031, if officials determine it is appropriate.

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