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The House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology advanced legislation today, led by Congressman Troy Balderson, to modernize federal spectrum coordination.

Wireless spectrum is a limited resource upon which virtually every American relies for modern wireless communications. These services include mobile phones, radio and television, satellites, and more.

"Federal agencies do not have a great track record at keeping pace with technological advances," said Rep. Balderson. "This legislation pushes federal agencies to keep up so we can ensure uninterrupted access to the critically important technology that we all rely on every day. From the cell phone in your hand to the radio in your car, it all relies on the efficient and effective federal coordination of this finite resource."




H.R. 1341, the "Spectrum Coordination Act" would require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to update their coordination agreement every four years, taking into account the rapid advancements in wireless technology. The most recent coordination agreement took 20 years to update.

The legislation also increases transparency and accountability, requiring the public disclosure of concerns with potential spectrum actions, impacts on government agencies, and how those concerns are to be addressed.

H.R. 1341 will now advance to the full Energy & Commerce Committee for further consideration.

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