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Washington, D.C. — House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered opening remarks at today’s Communications and Technology Subcommittee hearing titled “ Listen Here: Why Americans Value AM Radio .” Excerpts and highlights below: AM RADIO IS VITAL FOR RURAL AMERICANS “My constituents in Eastern Washington rely on AM radio. “It is how they hear the news in their communities, listen to sports, and receive information during emergencies. “In many parts of my district, FM radio is spotty and there is no access to broadband, so AM radio is the only option. “Which is why it’s concerning that some vehicle manufacturers have taken steps recently to remove AM radios from new car models. “This is in part a result of the Biden administration’s rush to green agenda as they push for electric vehicles, because electric vehicle batteries cause interference to AM frequencies, resulting in bad reception. “The decision to remove AM radio from cars would affect tens of millions of Americans—some estimates suggest that more than 45 million Americans tuned into AM radio each month. “While people in some parts of the country have been able to take advantage of alternative options in vehicles for accessing AM radio, like through a streaming service, many parts of the country still lack access to reliable broadband services, meaning this option would be unavailable. “That includes people in my community who are raising the alarm and sending the message that they like their AM Radio.” AM RADIO SAVES LIVES “They’re concerned that they could lose access to vital information services like the National Public Warning System. “Unlike its FM counterpart, AM radio signals travel long distances and pass through obstacles such as buildings, hills, and dense vegetation. “These characteristics ensure that potentially lifesaving information reaches a large audience, especially in rural areas with limited access to other forms of communication. “The Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, has also worked to reinforce AM Radio base stations to mitigate risks resulting from events like natural disasters.” KEEPING COMMUNITIES INFORMED & CONNECTED “And rural communities in particular rely on the services provided by AM radio, especially when they have only limited access to high-speed broadband and streamed services, or don’t have any access at all. “These services are important for farmers and ranchers, who use AM radio to receive information on the weather, crop reports, and other vital information for their livelihoods. “AM radio fosters a sense of local identity, connecting people through regional programming that reflects the unique perspectives and traditions of their communities. “Local media on AM radio is closer to the people, telling the stories and sharing the perspectives that the national news doesn’t cover and sometimes ignores, and it plays a crucial role in government accountability, acting as a watchdog for local school boards, county officials, regional courts, and other government bodies. “Further, AM radio continues to be a key outlet for talk radio shows to connect with audiences across the country. “Rush Limbaugh, for instance, had around 15 million listeners tuning in each week to his show, which was broadcast across 650 stations at its peak. “These are vital sources of information that keep people engaged and connected to their local community, region, and the voices and perspectives they value in their lives. “Whether they’re tuning in for local news, agricultural and weather reports, information during an emergency, or to listen to their favorite talk radio personality, AM radio continues to be a popular way for Americans to stay connected. “I look forward to our discussion, and I’m grateful for our experts today who share our goal to both celebrate American innovation, ensure people can use this critical communications tool, and the listen to AM Radio stations important to them.”

Washington, D.C. —  Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Chair Bob Latta (R-OH) delivered opening remarks at today’s Communications and Technology Subcommittee hearing titled “ Listen Here: Why Americans Value AM Radio .” Excerpts and highlights below: THE INTEGRAL ROLE OF AM RADIO “AM radio has been an integral part of our society for well over a century, connecting Americans to local news and serving as the backbone to our nation’s emergency communications infrastructure. “More than 45 million Americans tune into AM radio each month. They rely on it for local news, weather, sports, and emergency alerts. “Its unique frequency characteristics allow signals to travel far and wide, overcoming geographical barriers and reaching both urban and remote areas. “This makes AM radio an invaluable tool during times of crisis. “When hurricanes, tornadoes, or other natural disasters strike, AM radio remains steadfast, providing vital information to those in affected areas when other communication channels fail. “In fact, a few years ago, I was traveling through my district when it came on the radio that there was a tornado on the ground. “I switched to my local AM radio station playing in real time weather alerts that allowed me to know the exact path of the tornado. “With that information, I was able to safely drive home, avoiding the storms’ path. “In times of emergency, information is power, and AM radio remains a primary source for emergency reports.” AM RADIO IS KEY TO LOCAL NEWS AND THE COMMUNITY “Local broadcasters have long served as the trusted voice delivering real-time updates, weather alerts, evacuation instructions, and other critical information that can mean the difference between life and death. “Beyond emergency situations, AM radio plays a key role in local news and community engagement. “From news and cultural progams, to sports coverage and talk shows, AM radio keeps us connected to our community. These stations provide a platform for discussion, education, and entertainment. “Importantly, AM radio reaches a wide demographic, ranging from seniors to rural and underserved communities. “It serves as a source of information that is accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic status or access to the Internet.” SOME AUTO MANUFACTURERS TAKING AWAY AM RADIO “Today’s hearing is a result of announcements by many car manufacturers that they intend to remove AM radio in certain vehicles due to the interference between the AM radio receivers and batteries in electric vehicles. “As some manufacturers shared in response to a letter I led last month with my colleague, the gentleman from Indiana’s sixth District, the electromagnetic waves emitted by an electric vehicle’s battery interfere with the incoming AM radio waves, causing the sound to buzz and fade. “To solve this interference, some auto manufacturers are installing shields and filters to protect the receiver against this interference. “In other cases, it appears that cars are equipping their new models with AM radio capability, but have it disabled. “However, some automakers are considering or are actively removing AM radio receivers from new vehicles altogether, regardless of engine type. “I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today about the public safety dangers of removing AM radio and possible solutions to combatting signal interference. “Removing AM radio receivers from vehicles means individuals may miss out on critical—life saving—updates. “We must ensure that no community is left behind, no voice is silenced, and no emergency response is compromised.”

Washington, D.C. — Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Bob Latta (R-OH), and Subcommittee Ranking Member Doris Matsui (D-CA) today announced the Communications and Technology Subcommittee will hold a hearing on June 6, 2023, to examine the role of AM radio following reports that it may be removed in certain vehicles.  Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing titled: “Listen Here: Why Americans Value AM Radio”   WHAT: Communications and Technology Subcommittee hearing on importance of AM radio in new cars.  DATE: Tuesday, June 6, 2023  TIME: 10:00 AM ET  LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building  This notice is at the direction of the Chair. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be live streamed online at https://energycommerce.house.gov/ .  If you have any questions concerning the hearing, please contact Noah Jackson at Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov . If you have any press-related questions, please contact Sean Kelly at Sean.Kelly@mail.house.gov .  NOTE: On May 23, 2023, the Energy and Commerce first announced its plans to hold this hearing. CLICK HERE to read statements from Chair Rodgers, Ranking Member Pallone, Subcommittee Chair Latta, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Matsui. 

Solutions to Lower Health Care Costs, Boost Broadband Deployment, and Bolster Energy Security Washington, D.C. — House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered the following opening remarks at today’s Full Committee markup of 19 bills to lower health care costs, boost broadband deployment, and bolster energy security. Remarks as prepared for delivery: LOWERING HEALTH CARE COSTS & INCREASING TRANSPARENCY “I’m proud this committee is building on its rich history of delivering on important priorities at the very center of improving people’s lives and raising the standard of living. “We will begin our markup today with legislation from our Health subcommittee. “Our solutions will lower costs for Americans and provide more health care price transparency, responsibly fund community health centers and diabetes research, prevent harmful cuts to hospitals that serve the most vulnerable patients, train more doctors in our communities, and improve FDA’s review of animal drugs used by farmers and pet owners. “We are taking action to make the health care system more patient-friendly so that people can access health care when they need it and at a cost they can afford. “Just recently, I read in the Washington Post of the craziness of the American health care system—insurers denying a baby’s coverage to stay in the NICU for a fourth day by saying in a letter, ‘you are drinking from a bottle’ and ‘you are breathing on your own.’ “I can’t imagine what it was like being the new, tired parents of a NICU baby and receiving that harsh and cold letter. “To put patients and their needs first, we had a long discussion about the bills in Health subcommittee in both bipartisan legislative hearing and markup. “Today, is a very important step, but just a first step in our effort to improve how the health care system works for patients.” CLOSING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE “Next, we’ll move to our Communications and Technology Subcommittee solutions to help close the digital divide and lift permitting burdens so we deploy broadband faster, with less government waste, and more efficiently. “High-speed broadband is an important part of our economy, yet many Americans, including in Eastern Washington, do not have access to reliable broadband. “In order to deploy broadband, providers need to go through burdensome permitting processes at the federal, state, and local level and the time to receive approval on a permit can range from several months to several years. “Congress provided an unprecedented amount of spending—more than 42 billion dollars—for broadband deployment. “Without reforms to the permitting processes, this money could be wasted. “Our legislation would cut the red tape and ensure that this money can reach rural, unserved Americans quickly. “We’re moving forward on several of these bills in a bipartisan way but I am disappointed that my colleagues across the aisle are not joining us on our other solutions. “Regardless, we are moving forward to deliver for the American people.” SPECTRUM AND AMERICAN LEADERSHIP “Finally, on spectrum, we are acting again to reauthorize the FCC’s spectrum auction authority, this time for three years. “The Spectrum Auction Reauthorization Act would extend spectrum auction authority, make important changes to existing spectrum auction processes, and direct spectrum auction proceeds to fund critical programs. “This bill would promote our national security by providing $3.08 billion for our small communications providers to remove Huawei and ZTE from their networks. “It would authorize and fund Next Generation 9-1-1 technology to help our public safety officers and make sure Americans can reach emergency responders when they need it most. “Most importantly, this bill is a product of long bipartisan, bicameral negotiations, and I urge my colleagues to vote yes.” BOLSTERING AMERICA’S ENERGY SECURITY & PROTECTING APPLIANCE FREEDOM “On the energy front, we are continuing our mission to make energy more affordable and strengthen American energy security. “Nuclear is a key part of our energy mix and right now America is dangerously reliant upon Russia’s supply of nuclear fuels for our existing nuclear power plant fleet. “My legislation—the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act—bans fuel imports from Russia and sends a strong signal to the market that will help restore American nuclear leadership and fuel infrastructure. “We also will be considering two bills from Representatives Lesko and Armstrong that prevent DOE and the CPSC from universally banning gas stoves. “The Biden administration is trying to use the federal government’s power to dictate every aspect of our lives from what kind of car we can drive to how Americans are allowed to cook food for our families. “If a celebrity chef can be exempted by local Democrats by Palo Alto’s natural gas stove ban, surely we can all agree today to allow every hardworking person of this country to decide for themselves what stove is in their kitchen. “Finally, I’m pleased that Mr. Walberg, Ms. Schrier, and Ms. Blunt Rochester are leading on two cybersecurity bills to continue the Committee’s bipartisan leadership on protecting our critical energy infrastructure. “Again, thank you to all my colleagues who are leading in this markup. “It’s a reflection of our most important responsibilities as duly-elected members of the People’s House to listen to those we serve, engage in the battle of ideas, and find solutions to make people’s lives better. “I look forward to our discussion today. Let’s get to work.”

In a Full Committee markup today, the Energy and Commerce Committee passed solutions that will streamline broadband permitting to expedite deployment and reauthorize the Federal Communications Commission’s Spectrum Auction Authority. Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) on ensuring all Americans have access to reliable broadband services: ON CLOSING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE “High-speed broadband is an important part of our economy, yet many Americans, including in Eastern Washington, do not have access to reliable broadband. “In order to deploy broadband, providers need to go through burdensome permitting processes at the federal, state, and local level and the time to receive approval on a permit can range from several months to several years. “Our legislation would cut the red tape and ensure that this money can reach rural, unserved Americans quickly.” ON SPECTRUM “The Spectrum Auction Reauthorization Act would extend spectrum auction authority, make important changes to existing spectrum auction processes, and direct spectrum auction proceeds to fund critical programs. “This bill would promote our national security by providing $3.08 billion for our small communications providers to remove Huawei and ZTE from their networks. “It would authorize and fund Next Generation 9-1-1 technology to help our public safety officers and make sure Americans can reach emergency responders when they need it most. “Most importantly, this bill is a product of long bipartisan, bicameral negotiations, and I urge my colleagues to vote yes.” Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Bob Latta (R-OH): “The permitting bills we are considering today are an important step in ensuring that every American has access to high-speed broadband. “Since 2020, Congress has dedicated a record amount of money to support broadband deployment, culminating with Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. But spending is not enough. “The infrastructure law was a missed opportunity to enact meaningful permitting reform that is necessary to quickly build new networks. Today, we have the opportunity to fix that mistake.” Legislative Vote Summary: H.R. 3309 , the Standard Fees to Expedite Evaluation and Streamlining Act or the Standard FEES Act , sponsored by Reps. Gary Palmer and Patrick Ryan, was reported favorably, without amendment, to the House by a vote of 50-0. H.R. 3293 , the Expediting Federal Broadband Deployment Reviews Act , sponsored by Reps. Jeff Duncan and Angie Craig, was reported favorably, without amendment, to the House by a vote of 51-0. H.R. 3299 , the Deploying Infrastructure with Greater Internet Transactions and Legacy Applications Act or DIGITAL Applications Act , sponsored by Reps. Kat Cammack and Doris Matsui, was reported favorably, without amendment, to the House by a vote of 51-0. H.R. 3283 , the Facilitating the Deployment of Infrastructure with Greater Internet Transactions and Legacy Applications Act or Facilitating DIGITAL Applications Act , sponsored by Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Debbie Dingell, was reported favorably, without amendment, to the House by a vote of 51-0. H.R. 3343 , the Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act , sponsored by Reps. August Pfluger and Darren Soto, was reported favorably, without amendment, to the House by a vote of 51-0. H.R. 3565 , the Spectrum Auction Reauthorization Act of 2023 , sponsored by Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Frank Pallone, Jr., was reported favorably, as amended, to the House by a vote of 50-0. H.R. 3557 , the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2023 , sponsored by Rep. Buddy Carter, Nathaniel Moran, and Neal Dunn, was reported favorably, as amended, to the House by a vote of 27-23.

Washington, D.C. —  Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Chair Bob Latta (R-OH) delivered opening remarks at today’s Communications and Technology Subcommittee hearing titled “ Oversight and Reauthorization of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration .” Excerpts and highlights below: MAJOR CHANGES IN COMMUNICATIONS SINCE 1993 “Good morning, and welcome back before this subcommittee, Assistant Secretary Davidson. “Today’s hearing is to provide oversight of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, or NTIA, and discuss reauthorization of the agency. “Since 1993 when NTIA was last reauthorized, the communications landscape has changed drastically. “NTIA has important statutory obligations to manage federal-use spectrum, coordinate other Internet and communications functions between the Executive Branch, and support public safety communications initiatives. “NTIA’s budget has increased substantially as their duties have grown, federal and non-federal use of spectrum has intensified with the explosion of mobile phones and improved technologies, and cybersecurity challenges have dramatically increased. “It is Congress’s role, and specifically this Subcommittee’s role, to oversee and authorize the agency’s funding and priorities to ensure communications policy continues to benefit Americans and drive our economy. “Since our last oversight hearing, NTIA has submitted its 2024 budget request for $117.3 million, nearly double its current authorization. “With this new budget request and several other new initiatives being implemented by NTIA, this hearing will serve as the first step in much-needed oversight and transparency into this agency. “For example, NTIA has formalized existing spectrum coordination procedures with the FCC by updating their memorandum of understanding, which members on this Committee had advocated for.” OVERSIGHT OF NTIA SUBSIDY PROGRAMS “NTIA has also begun implementing several broadband subsidy programs. “Today’s oversight hearing is the first with NTIA since it published its Notice of Funding Opportunity, or NO-FO, for the BEAD Program. “These NO-FOs include the rules of the road for how these programs will be administered. “Getting these rules right is crucial, including technology neutrality, will ultimately determine whether all Americans are connected or if they will continue to be left on the wrong side of the digital divide. “Today, we have 18 pieces of draft legislation to discuss during today’s hearing to jump start discussion on NTIA’s evolving mission and seek feedback from the agency.” REAUTHORIZING AND MODERNIZING THE NTIA “I am pleased to be leading the NTIA Reauthorization Act of 2023 to begin a bipartisan discussion on how Congress can ensure NTIA has the statutory tools it needs to fulfill its mission. “The NTIA Reauthorization Act would elevate the Assistant Secretary to an Under Secretary level, modernize the agency’s policies and missions, and authorize its funding to match current funding levels. “Other discussion drafts on today’s hearing would elevate NTIA’s role in coordinating interagency broadband funding and permitting processes, support NTIA’s Federal spectrum management mission, and reflect NTIA’s expertise as a federal coordinator and convener by granting authority to coordinate public safety and cybersecurity policy development and representation. “With the billions of dollars available for broadband deployment being managed by a variety of federal agencies, coordination will be key to ensuring that money isn’t wasted. “As the lead agency for broadband, NTIA should lead the development of a national broadband strategy. “Other components of the reauthorization effort would require NTIA to lead efforts on developing common models, methodologies, and inputs to inform spectrum management decisions, ensure NTIA benefits from the expertise of commercial spectrum users, and make reforms to federal spectrum relocation processes. “I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for leading on the initiatives before us. “The role of NTIA has drastically changed since it was last reauthorized, and I look forward to working with the agency and affected stakeholders to update its authorizing statute. “Finally, I am pleased we are beginning oversight efforts this Congress, which includes ensuring that NTIA is being good stewards of tax dollars allocated for broadband expansion and funds are going toward unserved or underserved communities. “These oversight efforts will be the crucial link to help close the digital divide and make sure all Americans are connected by high-speed, broadband Internet. “Before I yield back, I did want to note that for this subcommittee to effectively conduct oversight, we need your testimony within the 48-hour requirement moving forward.”

Washington, D.C. —  House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered opening remarks at today’s Communication and Technology Subcommittee hearing titled “ Oversight and Reauthorization of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration .” Excerpts and highlights below: NTIA’S RESPONSIBILITIES AND MISSION “The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is the principal advisor to the president on issues ranging from managing federal spectrum use to working on domestic and international telecom policies, advanced communications research, and strengthening public safety communications. “It is responsible for developing a national spectrum strategy, seeking input on AI and privacy policy, cybersecurity issues, and more recently, running the largest broadband grant program in our nation’s history. “IIJA created the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment, or BEAD program, the Middle Mile Grant Program, two digital equity grant programs, and it gave additional money to the Tribal Broadband Connectivity program. “Altogether, this funding gave NTIA an additional $48.2 billion dollars to administer on behalf of American taxpayers. “These initiatives highlight just how much NTIA’s duties have changed since it was last reauthorized in 1993 and the need for Congress to reauthorize agencies whose authorization has lapsed. “Reauthorizing agencies in the Energy and Commerce Committee’s jurisdiction is a top priority. “It is good governance for Congress to consistently evaluate the duties and authorities of agencies within their purview. “NTIA has not be reauthorized in 30 years, and I am pleased that we are making it a bipartisan priority in this subcommittee to change that. “The discussion drafts we are considering at today’s hearing would modernize NTIA’s authorities to come in line with their 21st century responsibilities.” OVERSIGHT OF THE BEAD PROGRAM “Today’s hearing is just as much about oversight as it is about reauthorization. “Millions of Americans still lack access to broadband services, despite our federal government spending tens of billions of dollars on broadband-related programs over the years. “The BEAD program is poised to allocate over $42 billion dollars to every corner of the United States. “Americans deserve to know that those resources are being invested effectively and aren’t being wasted. “We are still waiting to hear about the accuracy of the newest version of the Federal Communications Commission’s broadband data maps, which NTIA is supposed to use to ensure resources get to communities that need them most. “We‘re concerned by reports that the initial version of the maps was missing entire communities and inaccurately stating coverage in many areas. “NTIA needs to make sure these concerns are resolved in the new map before it allocates money to states. “NTIA also has a responsibility to remain technology neutral as investments are made, per congressional intent. “We need to make sure these funds meet each community’s needs as the geography and use-case allows. “I was disappointed to hear that certain restrictions in NTIA’s notice of funding opportunity would lead to funds being primarily spent laying expensive fiber, even in areas where alternatives like fixed-wireless or satellite solutions would be better options. “While fiber-optic infrastructure may be the best option in some communities, particularly higher-density areas, we cannot forget about the importance of other solutions which can offer connectivity in areas unreachable by fiber.” STRENGTHENING AMERICAN LEADERSHIP AND CLOSING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE “I was pleased that the notice asked entities applying for BEAD funding to streamline their permitting processes. “Permitting reform is a top priority for this committee. “It is clear that the current permitting regime in the United States, both at the federal and local level, is not equipped to handle the quantity of projects and resources that the BEAD program promises. “This Committee is leading efforts to reform the broadband permitting process in the United States to ensure quicker access to broadband and I look forward to working with you and NTIA to streamline broadband permitting to ensure resources aren’t wasted and communications infrastructure is deployed effectively. “If we fail to take action now, these projects may not be completed within their deadline and could even stop receiving funds before completion. “I look forward to discussing several legislative solutions today to help ensure NTIA is carrying out its mission of strengthening American communications leadership and closing the digital divide. “Thank you, Administrator Davidson for being here, I look forward to the discussion.”

Washington, D.C. — Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Bob Latta (R-OH), and Subcommittee Ranking Member Doris Matsui (D-CA) today announced plans to hold a Committee hearing in early June on the importance of AM radio installation in new cars. “Communities across the country rely on AM radio services for local news, weather reports, and other critical information. It is also a key tool for our nation's emergency communications infrastructure, especially when other communication services are not available. I look forward to this timely discussion on the many benefits of AM radio as a source of information and the importance of ensuring it continues to be available in new vehicle models.” — Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) “It’s alarming that some auto manufacturers are considering opting out of installing AM radios in new cars. AM radio plays an essential role in our communities, especially during public emergencies when other alert systems that rely on the electric grid and cellphone networks may not work. I’m looking forward to the Energy and Commerce Committee holding a hearing on this important matter next month. Corporate penny pinching is not a justification to undermine one of our nation’s most reliable public emergency communication networks, and requiring consumers to pay more money for a subscription service to receive AM radio is not an acceptable alternative.” — Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) “AM radio capabilities are essential for Americans across the country, but especially for those who live in rural communities, like many in Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District, where other forms of connectivity may not be reliable. Whether listeners tune in to listen to updates during times of emergencies, the home team’s game, agricultural information, or for other reasons, it is concerning vehicle companies are taking steps to remove these stations from their electric cars. Earlier this month, I lead a letter with my colleague from Indiana, Rep. Greg Pence, to ask auto manufacturers for a status update on the use of AM radio and their plans to remove AM radio receivers from their vehicles. I look forward to receiving their responses by the end of the week. In the meantime, it is my hope that announcing this educational hearing will show the important role AM radio stations have played for decades.” — Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Bob Latta (R-OH) “AM radio provides Americans a crucial public service. In the face of a life-threatening disaster, Americans need to be able to rely on emergency communications to get them the information they need. AM radio has proven again and again to be that reliable tool. Whether during wildfire season or severe winter storms, in California we understand just how vital AM radio is to ensure Americans get emergency information when it matters most. I look forward to holding a hearing on this important topic.” — Communications and Technology Subcommittee Ranking Member Doris Matsui (D-CA)

Access to reliable, high-speed broadband services has become an essential tool to participate in the American economy. In order to ensure all Americans are connected, we need to remove regulatory burdens and cut red tape, which have resulted in unnecessary permitting delays and exorbitant costs to deploying our communications infrastructure. In several recent op-eds for the Washington Times, Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA) outline how House Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans are leading on solutions that streamline the permitting process to help deploy broadband faster and more effectively. This will ensure Americans get connected in communities across the country—especially in unserved areas. FROM REP. WALBERG: The pandemic is over, but the massive digital divide that it exposed persists. Every week, I hear from constituents who have no option for high-speed internet. Just a few miles down the road, my neighbors do not have a reliable connection. The consequences of this are significant, and these families, farmers, and businesses in rural America are being left behind in the digital age.   Throughout the last three years, nearly $100 billion has been allocated for broadband through several different programs, including $65 billion for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Republicans in Congress know money is not a fix-all. We need to address the remaining obstacles to deploying broadband infrastructure and get all Americans connected. First, our permitting processes need to be updated and streamlined. Unpredictable timelines for permit approvals and exorbitant fees for applications have made it slower, more expensive, and onerous to deploy broadband infrastructure. To address this, my House Energy and Commerce Committee colleagues and I have reintroduced our comprehensive permitting package. This slate of bills will cut through unnecessary red tape, enforce needed shot clocks on agency reviews, and harmonize application processes and fees. Hurdles exist at the federal, state, and local level and ongoing disputes between area incumbents and broadband providers further exacerbates the problem. As a part of any broadband infrastructure update, we must improve coordination and cooperation between broadband providers, government agencies, and other stakeholders, such as utilities, transportation, and public safety. Coordination should also come with transparency and accountability, such as publishing data on the status and outcomes of permits. […] The digital divide between urban and rural America is unacceptable, and we must do everything in our power to close that gap. As co-chair of the Rural Broadband Caucus, I know this is not just an issue of convenience; it is a matter of economic opportunity, healthcare access, and education. To that end, officials must prioritize funding for areas that are truly unserved. We cannot simply throw money at the problem and hope that it goes away. We need to make sure that the funds are being used in the most effective manner possible, and that means targeting areas that are in the most need. Keep reading HERE . FROM REP. ALLEN: High-speed broadband is a critical part of today’s modern economy, no matter where you live. Whether it’s a patient seeking telehealth services, a student accessing online resources for homework, a farmer who wants to use analytics software to improve their operation, or a small business that simply wants to share its product with the world, Americans are increasingly reliant on internet connectivity for daily activities. Unfortunately, many Americans still do not have reliable access to the internet, including in my district and my home state of Georgia. To close the digital divide and further America’s leadership in next-generation broadband and wireless networks, we need effective reforms to accelerate the build out of high-speed connections, boost U.S. competitiveness, and ensure our farmers have the 21st century tools necessary to increase production. As a proud Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I am in a unique position to play a pivotal role in crafting legislation that lifts regulatory barriers and cuts through the bureaucratic red tape that has worsened the digital divide millions of Americans currently face—and we’ve hit the ground running in the 118th Congress. The Energy and Commerce Committee continues to go through regular order to improve our nation’s broadband access. In April, the House passed H.R. 1339, the Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by my friend and colleague, Rep. Bob Latta (OH-05). Agriculture is Georgia’s number one industry, and to meet growing demand, farm families must have access to high-speed internet and innovative technologies on the farm to produce higher yields. […] Additionally, the Energy and Commerce Committee is continuing to hold hearings on streamlining permitting to expedite broadband deployment. Among other notable issues, these hearings have shined a light on the shortcomings of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The bill lacked necessary reforms to address the permitting and processing delays that are hampering broadband deployment in our rural communities. Unfortunately, this is business as usual in Washington—simply throwing more money at a problem without enacting needed program improvements, leading to wasted taxpayer dollars. Lastly, one of my top priorities in Congress is to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse by ensuring the Federal Broadband Map is accurate so our federal dollars are prioritized for communities that are truly underserved. I consistently hear from local stakeholders that the FCC’s mapping, from which the distribution of federal grant and loan dollars is based, is inadequate and incorrect. The process is improving, including by taking data from States into account. Georgia is the gold standard when it comes to accurate broadband mapping, and Georgia invested many state resources to recognizing exactly where broadband is needed across the state. We should be utilizing proven data to ensure our taxpayer dollars are not wasted when U.S. competitiveness and enterprise are on the line. Keep reading HERE . DON'T MISS: The Subcommittee on Communications and Technology will hold a legislative hearing on Tuesday where they will discuss reauthorizing the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.