PANEL HAS JURISDICTION OVER INTERSTATE/ INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS & FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Washington, Dec 7, 2007 - Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL) today was named by the Energy & Commerce Committee as the Republican Leader of the Telecommunications & The Internet Subcommittee.

“I deeply appreciate the support of my fellow committee members in selecting me for this important post,” said Stearns. “Telecommunications and the internet are revolutionizing the way we work, shop, and spend our leisure time. They create new industries, services and jobs, constantly advancing our technological capabilities. I also realize that we need forceful action against online crimes and internet predators. As our nation transitions to Digital Television, employs third- and fourth-generation wireless, and uses faster internet and more broadband, our productivity will continue to soar. However, we must ensure that onerous regulations do not hamper these developments.”

The jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet covers interstate and foreign telecommunications including, but not limited to all telecommunication and information transmission by broadcast, radio, wire, microwave, satellite, or other mode; and, Homeland security-related aspects of the previous, including cybersecurity.

Stearns possesses strong qualifications for this position: a degree in electrical engineering from George Washington University, serving in the U.S. Air Force as an engineer in satellite reconnaissance, and employment with high tech firms after his Air Force service.