Friday, July 13, 2018

Billy Long: it's time to reauthorize agency that oversees telecommunications policy

(From Seventh District Congressman Billy Long)

Before President Trump there were Presidents Obama, Bush 43, Clinton, Bush 41, Reagan and Carter. During President Carter’s administration, in 1978, Congress created the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to streamline telecommunications policy that was once overseen by an array of agencies. 

Under its current jurisdiction, NTIA oversees the administration and implementation of broadband grants, management over federal spectrum and the development of telecommunications policy in areas relating to privacy, copyright and cybersecurity. It also has authority over public safety communications, such as FirstNet, which is the broadband network that connects our nation’s first responders during crises.

Since its inception, NTIA has been a driving force behind policy solutions that expand access to broadband internet while also acting as both the domestic and international face for telecommunications policy. With rapid advancements in technology, it is crucial that Congress reauthorizes NTIA that dates all the way back to President Carter’s administration.

I am a member of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, which has held nine hearings regarding NTIA and its reauthorization. After months of these hearings, the Subcommittee is examining legislation that would finally reauthorize and update NTIA.

The draft legislation focuses on closing the digital divide by creating an Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth, which would expand access to broadband internet in underserved areas. It also requires NTIA to conduct a study to improve 9-1-1 services for mobile phones and addresses ways to combat growing cybersecurity threats by increasing coordination between other federal agencies.

As our efforts continue, I will work with my colleagues to ensure NTIA is once again reauthorized. Like Subcommittee Chairman Marsha Blackburn said, NTIA has a critical role in our 21st century economy. This draft legislation ensures NTIA has the authority and funding it needs to tackle 21st century problems facing our communities, especially in rural areas.

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