A bill to address the wave of internet censorship being engaged in by repressive regimes around the world—the Global Online Freedom Act (GOFA)—will be taken up at a congressional hearing Tuesday to be held by Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04), chair of the House panel that oversees human rights.

    The legislation would prevent U.S. information technology companies from collaborating with foreign dictators in their efforts to censor the Internet and spy on their own citizens.  The bill is in response to regular reports of such human rights violations by governments seeking to control information and peaceful expression, and to track down political foes, religious dissidents, journalists and others. H.R. 3605 would promote freedom of expression on the Internet, and seek to restore public confidence in the integrity of U.S. businesses operating in countries with repressive regimes.

    Who:               Congressman Smith, Chairman of the human rights subcommittee
                            on the Foreign Affairs Committee; other members of the committee; 

    When:             Tuesday, March 27 @ 2 p.m.

    Where:            2200 Rayburn House Office Building on the second floor.