Telecommunications
Ever since America won the space race, we have led the world with unprecedented technological advances. Innovative technology and telecommunications, especially the advent of the internet, opened up America to a wide array of global markets and new avenues of success.
Unfortunately, the talent, intellect, and entrepreneurial spirit of the American people that made this nation great are currently being seriously challenged. America is falling behind in both the race to invent new technologies and the ability to apply the technology already in existence.
I believe it is essential that America once again lead the world in innovative technology. Americans must continue to innovate in order to create new thriving industries that will produce millions of good jobs here at home and a better future for the next generation. The first step to this goal is ensuring that every community has access to the technology of the 21 st Century, especially digital television and high speed internet.
Priorities
• I am concerned by the recent efforts to mitigate the FCC's media ownership rules that are intended to foster three major policy goals: competition, diversity, and localism. I believe that Congress needs to exercise its oversight over the FCC and should fully investigate the proposed media ownership rules to make sure its goals are maintained.
• On February 17, 2009, American television stations will end all analog broadcasts and begin broadcasting exclusively in a digital format, as mandated by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. The switch to digital television (DTV) will offer improved television pictures and sound, and is more efficient and flexible than the traditional broadcast technology known as analog. Congress has appropriated $1.5 billion to fund a digital-to-analog converter box coupon program. Since January 1, 2008, households have been able to request up to two coupons valued at $40 each to go towards the purchase of a single converter box. For more information on the DTV coupon program or information on how to request a coupon, please visit the National Telecommunications and Information Agency Web site. Also, please continue to check our website or www.dtv.gov as the deadline for this historical transition approaches.
• I have high hopes that we can close the digital divide and provide high speed broadband access nationwide, even to our rural communities. High-speed internet access promotes education and integrated learning in classrooms, facilitates independent living for residents who are disabled or ill, and encourages civic participation and must be available to all citizens regardless of where they live. |
|
Accomplishments
I am a cosponsor of H.R. 2802, which was introduced by Representative Michael Doyle (D-PA) on June 21, 2007. This legislation promotes the FCC's policy goals of competition, diversity, and localism. Specifically, this bill allows the establishment of thousands of local, noncommercial radio stations in communities across the country. See the bill as introduced
I have also cosponsored H.R. 2060, the Internet Radio Equality Act. This legislation prevents the decline of online radio broadcasting and provides consumers with more listening options.
See the bill as introduced
I endorsed the Communication Workers of America's resolution on “Speed Matters” because I am hopeful that this investment in broadband infrastructure and universal deployment will boost the Valley's economy and speed job creation in the region.
Learn more about Speed Matters website
With my strong vote of support, the America COMPETES Act passed the House and the Senate and was signed into public law in August. This legislation involves partnerships with the private sector to invest in a workforce that will be ready for global competition and bring America back as a leader of cutting edge technology.
See the bill as passed
|
|
