Wicker, Klobuchar Introduce Broadband Interagency Coordination Act

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Senators Roger Wicker, (R-MS), Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Amy Klobuchar, (D-MN), Thursday introduced the “Broadband Interagency Coordination Act of 2019.” The legislation would direct the FCC, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to enter into a memorandum of understanding to coordinate the distribution of federal funds for broadband deployment. Such an agreement would reduce overbuilding and ensure funds are targeted to unserved and underserved areas.

“Better coordination and information sharing among the federal agencies responsible for administering broadband deployment programs are essential parts of expanding availability,” Wicker said. “This legislation will ensure the federal government targets its efforts to those who need it most.”

“It’s critical that every family in America have access to broadband internet connection, no matter their zip code,” said Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure that the Federal Communications Commission, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration coordinate and share information on their broadband deployment efforts so federal funds are used effectively to target unserved and underserved areas.”

The Commerce Committee has jurisdiction over both the FCC and NTIA.

In response, USTelecom President/CEO Jonathan Spalter said: “Requiring better coordination among agencies managing our finite federal broadband dollars is the definition of good government and will speed our shared mission of ensuring broadband reaches every home and business that still needs it.”  Comments? Email Us.

May 6, 2019

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