Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) issued the following statement today commending the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approving new reforms today at the Commission’s October meeting:
“Today, the FCC continued its efforts to curb the costs to families of prison inmates that often have to pay too much to stay in touch. My home state of New Jersey has led the way on this, and I am pleased that the Commission has taken another important step today to ensure fair phone rates for prisoners across the country.
“Additionally, as New Jerseyans know from Hurricane Sandy, broadcasters are essential to getting emergency information out to consumers. The FCC took important steps today to look into whether foreign ownership rules can be streamlined for broadcasters that could result in new investment opportunities.
“Finally, I’m pleased that the FCC continues to explore new spectrum frontiers that will keep us in the lead to win the race to 5G. But we in Congress also have a role to play to keep up with consumer demand for wireless services. I hope we can act this year on spectrum legislation that would authorize additional spectrum auctions, and include the spectrum proposals from Rep. Matsui and Rep. Clarke."
