US lawmaker introduces bipartisan bill targeting Iran’s internet restrictions

US Representative Claudia Tenney said on Wednesday that she had introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at expanding access to open internet for people in Iran, as authorities continue to restrict communications during protests.

“The Iranian people have shown extraordinary courage in demanding basic freedoms from a regime that fears open communication,” the Republican lawmaker wrote on X.

She said the proposed legislation, titled the IRAN Act, would require the US government to develop a clear strategy to support open and secure internet access inside Iran.

The bill would focus on protecting essential communication tools, countering bans on virtual private networks, and responding more directly to nationwide internet blackouts, according to her statement.

Tenney said the measure was intended to confront those restrictions “head-on” and ensure US policy more effectively supports free communication for Iranians.