Ross issued the following statement regarding passage of the legislation:
“In today’s evolving world, technological advancements are being made at a previously unimaginable pace.  The Telecommunications Act of 1996 is outdated and must be revised to reflect today’s rapidly evolving needs.

“Technological change is driving the convergence of a number of previously distinct telecommunications and media markets.  Digital technologies are being deployed in and carried over wireline, cable, and wireless networks that are increasingly capable of providing voice, data, and video services over a single broadband platform.  By streamlining the franchising process, the COPE Act will bring more products, options and competition thereby reducing cost to consumers.  As the highest-value telecommunications service, video is the driving force of infrastructure development.  More infrastructure is desperately needed in the 150 small towns I represent.  A national franchise agreement will enable rural Americans to have access to the latest technology.

“I represent a rural district and many of my constituents are not receiving products and services that are currently available in the market.  It is imperative that as new technologies become available, Americans in rural areas have access to them.

“I supported amendments that would increase the role of local governments and explicitly prohibit discrimination in access to services provided to the consumer.  Unfortunately, these amendments were defeated, but I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as this legislation is brought to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives for a vote.  Ultimately, when passed in to law this legislation from the Energy and Commerce Committee will bring about more competition, decreased prices and more choice to consumers. 

“Amateur radio operators are often overlooked in favor of flashier means of communication.  However, as modern technology can be highly vulnerable to natural disasters and terrorism, HAM radios require no cell towers or satellites.  They are often the only means of communication attainable in a devastated area.  As one of only two licensed amateur radio operators in the U.S. House of Representatives, I believe it is imperative that the interference potential is thoroughly examined and comprehensively evaluated to ensure that deployment of BPL, which I do support, does not cause radio interference for amateur radio operators and first responders who serve our communities. 

“I commend the Committee's passage of this legislation as we begin the process of encouraging more access and options for those in less populated areas, rather than creating a wider disparity between the rural and urban areas.”