March 4, 2025
In a unanimous voice vote on March 4, 2025, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce advanced ten bipartisan bills to enhance the United States’ telecommunications, cybersecurity, and infrastructure sectors. These legislative measures now await consideration by the full House of Representatives. Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-KY) expressed pride in the bipartisan effort, stating, “Each of these bipartisan pieces of legislation was passed by the House last Congress, and I am proud that we will be moving these forward again today.”
Key Legislative Measures
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Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act (H.R. 1618)
Sponsored by Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) and Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH), this bill seeks to enhance satellite connectivity for precision agriculture technologies, aiming to improve efficiency and productivity in the agricultural sector.
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Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) Codification Act (H.R. 1455)
Introduced by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA), this legislation codifies the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), thereby strengthening federal research on spectrum policy and promoting efficient spectrum use.
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NTIA Policy and Cybersecurity Coordination Act (H.R. 1766)
Led by Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA), this bill proposes the establishment of an Office of Policy Development and Cybersecurity within the NTIA to analyze and develop policies related to internet and communications technologies, thereby formalizing the agency’s role in cybersecurity policy.
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Promoting United States Wireless Leadership Act of 2025 (H.R. 1765)
Sponsored by Rep. Tom Kean (R-NJ), this act aims to ensure robust U.S. participation in setting international standards for 5G, 6G, and future wireless technologies, thereby maintaining the nation’s leadership in global technology communications.
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Trans-Atlantic Submarine Fiber Optic Cable Feasibility Study (H.R. 1737)
This bill directs the Secretary of Commerce to assess the value, cost, and feasibility of a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable connecting the contiguous United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Ghana, and Nigeria, aiming to enhance global communications infrastructure.
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Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act (H.R. 1709)
Introduced by Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA), this legislation mandates a comprehensive study on the cybersecurity of mobile networks to identify vulnerabilities and recommend protective measures, thereby enhancing the security of mobile communications.
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Global Investment in American Jobs Act (H.R. 1679)
This act aims to promote policies encouraging foreign direct investment in the United States, thereby boosting economic growth and job creation.
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Consumer Safety Technology Act (H.R. 1770)
This bill, sponsored by Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL), focuses on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance consumer product safety and protect consumers from hazardous products.
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Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act (H.R. 1721)
Introduced by Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), this legislation directs the Department of Commerce to study the feasibility of domestically manufacturing critical infrastructure components, aiming to strengthen supply chains and national security.
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Awning Safety Act of 2025 (H.R. 1767)
This bill aims to establish safety standards for awnings to prevent accidents and injuries, enhancing consumer safety.
Bipartisan Support and Next Steps
The unanimous voice vote reflects strong bipartisan support for these measures, underscoring a collective commitment to advancing the nation’s technological infrastructure and security. The bills now proceed to the full House of Representatives for consideration, where they are expected to receive prompt attention.
The advancement of these ten bipartisan bills by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce signifies a concerted effort to bolster the United States’ telecommunications, cybersecurity, and infrastructure frameworks. As these legislative measures move forward, they hold the potential to enhance the nation’s technological resilience and economic competitiveness significantly.
