House advances domestic communications networks bill

The House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee has advanced the Spectrum Innovation Act (H.R. 7624), which would enhance domestic communications networks.

U.S. Reps. Bob Latta (R-OH) and Rep. Mike Doyle (D-PA), chairman of the House Commerce Communications and Technology Subcommittee, co-authored the measure, which seeks to provide faster speeds and more responsive networks.

“In a world centered around technology, this bipartisan legislation is a win for Ohioans and Americans nationwide,” Latta said. “The Spectrum Innovation Act will benefit consumers by providing more reliable connections with faster speeds and more responsive networks. At the same time, proceeds from the spectrum auctions will support public safety and secure our telecommunication networks from bad actors like China. This bill shows what Congress can do when we work together to address the issues facing the country.”

The bill targets deploying 5G networks while closing the rural Americans, enabling innovators to create next-generation communications technology and securing telecommunication networks against domestic and foreign enemies, including China.

The FCC is presently facing a $3.08 billion funding shortfall related to ripping and replacing untrusted equipment from communication networks that include Huawei and ZTE. The legislation would address such a circumstance.

The measure details up to $10 billion in future auction proceeds to upgrade 9-1-1 infrastructure and includes the Extending America’s Spectrum Auction Leadership Act of 2022, extending the Federal Communications Commission’s general auction authority, slated to expire on Sept. 30, for 18 months.