arrow_back Back to App

US support for Hong Kong internet freedom: funding anti-censorship tools

This Act aims to establish programs and allocate funds for developing technologies that help Hong Kong residents bypass internet censorship and blockades. Citizens of Hong Kong may gain access to tools like VPNs and firewall circumvention technologies, protecting their right to free access to information and online communication. These programs will operate independently of mainland China initiatives until 2028, focusing on supporting current liberties in Hong Kong.
Key points
Funding Technology: Authorizes $15 million annually (fiscal years 2024-2028) for the Open Technology Fund and the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor to carry out the section.
Internet Freedom Program: Establishes a dedicated program within the State Department and the Open Technology Fund to bolster internet resiliency and online access in Hong Kong.
Support for Activists: Authorizes grants to private organizations to promote press freedom, online information access, and digital security capacity building for internet users and civil society actors.
Operational Independence: Hong Kong support programs will be carried out independently from mainland China initiatives until September 30, 2028.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_3114
Sponsor: Sen. Lankford, James [R-OK]
Process start date: 2023-10-24
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-3-pro-preview
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Safeguarding Internet Freedom in Hong Kong Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_3114.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-10-24.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Funding Technology: Authorizes $15 million annually (fiscal years 2024-2028) for the Open Technology Fund and the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor to carry out the section.
  • Internet Freedom Program: Establishes a dedicated program within the State Department and the Open Technology Fund to bolster internet resiliency and online access in Hong Kong.
  • Support for Activists: Authorizes grants to private organizations to promote press freedom, online information access, and digital security capacity building for internet users and civil society actors.
  • Operational Independence: Hong Kong support programs will be carried out independently from mainland China initiatives until September 30, 2028.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Lankford, James [R-OK].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-30.

CATEGORIES

Security Media and Culture Economy