Findlay Times

The U.S. House has given its approval to the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA) Reauthorization Act, a piece of legislation spearheaded by Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) and Ranking Member Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA7). This bill marks the first reauthorization of NTIA in 30 years and aims to enhance NTIA's capacity to implement a national spectrum strategy, coordinate on AI and cybersecurity matters, and update the agency's mission and functions.

In 2023, Congress allocated $48.2 billion to NTIA for broadband deployment to those unserved and underserved by the Internet across the United States. The NTIA Reauthorization Act is expected to equip NTIA with the necessary tools for successful mission execution while ensuring efficient use of American tax dollars.

Latta commented on the development, saying, “Having a leg up on the competition requires strong American communications networks, a forward-looking spectrum process, and common-sense reforms to meet the digital age we live in.” He added that the House passage of the NTIA Reauthorization Act was a positive step towards maintaining global competitiveness for the United States and ensuring that NTIA continues its mission of bridging the digital divide while safeguarding taxpayer dollars.

Matsui echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that rapid American innovation necessitates an elevated role for NTIA. She applauded her colleagues for passing this bipartisan legislation and urged swift action from the Senate.

Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers also voiced her support for the bill, highlighting its importance in modernizing NTIA's mission and reinforcing its role in closing the digital divide. Similarly, CTIA Senior Vice President Kelly Cole expressed gratitude towards Latta and Matsui for their leadership in introducing this act.

Jonathan Spalter, President and CEO of USTelecom noted that this bipartisan reauthorization reaffirms NTIA's critical mission as an essential player in the nation's connectivity future.

NTIA plays a pivotal role in closing the digital divide, managing the nation's spectrum, and advocating for the United States' telecommunications position on the global stage. However, it has not been reauthorized since 1992, leading to a lack of new tools and direction to fulfill its mission of connecting all Americans and finally closing the digital divide.