WASHINGTON, DC - The House Energy and Commerce Committee today advanced key legislation to modernize and reform the Federal Communications Commission. H.R. 2583, the FCC Process Reform Act, authored by Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) and Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), builds upon the committee’s years-long work to open the FCC’s doors to the American people by bringing much-needed transparency, accountability, and predictability to the commission.
“We have long worked to improve accountability and transparency in government - and a little more sunshine at the FCC is a good thing," said full committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). “No matter the administration or party, a commission operating in full view of the American public is always preferable to operating behind closed doors under a shroud of secrecy. We can always do better when it comes to transparency and today’s vote is a positive step in the right direction."
“Modernizing our government for the 21st century and restoring transparency and accountability have long been priorities for this committee, and today’s markup is a long time in the making," said full committee Vice Chair Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). “Sensible reforms have been offered by members of both parties that will significantly improve the function of the FCC. Our committee operates openly with debate, amendments, and votes occurring under the watchful eye of the public. The FCC’s decision-making process should be held to a similar standard of transparency."
The FCC Process Reform Act “is based on the premise that the American people are better served by a more transparent and efficient Federal Communications Commission," added Walden. “I want our federal government to be more open, more transparent, and more accessible to the public. And I won’t stop until we get this done."
“It is not partisan to believe that the public has the right to an accessible and transparent government," said Kinzinger. “This legislation will ensure the American people the accountability they demand and deserve by improving the predictability, efficiency, and transparency of the FCC and its operations."
The legislation, which now includes four amendments - encompassing the three Democratic and three Republican proposals approved by the Communications and Technology Subcommittee -, was approved by a voice vote.
