National Telecommunications and Information Administration Reauthorization Act of 2024

Floor Speech

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Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend and colleague from Ohio for yielding.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4510, the NTIA Authorization Act.

The legislation includes my bipartisan, bicameral PLAN for Broadband Act, which requires the NTIA, in consultation with all relevant agencies, to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.

I thank my cosponsor, Representative Kuster, for her efforts with regard to this legislation.

A GAO report found that there are more than 130 Federal broadband programs administered by at least 15 separate agencies, totaling hundreds of billions of dollars that could be used to increase connectivity across the country.

Without clear goals, objectives, and performance measures, these programs are fragmented and can result in duplication and overbuilding or not building at all.

In rural districts like mine where thousands of my constituents lack access to a reliable connection, we must ensure Federal dollars are spent effectively and efficiently.

The plan would synchronize interagency coordination among Federal broadband programs, identify ways to lower costs, and ease administrative burdens for States and localities to participate in these programs, and make recommendations to better distribute and administer the Federal taxpayer funds.

We can't be wasting time, money, and resources deploying to areas that have already been covered at the expense of those who haven't or are inadequate. A national broadband strategy is key to closing the digital divide.

The broader package also includes much-needed language to reauthorize the NTIA, enhance spectrum management processes, fortify network security, and foster nationwide connectivity. I want to thank Chairman Latta for his leadership on the larger bill, as well as my co-leads in the House and Senate for their partnership and commitment to connecting rural America.

I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

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