WASHINGTON, DC - The Communications and Technology Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), today announced a hearing for Tuesday, March 21, 2017, at 10 a.m. in room 2322 of the Rayburn House Office Building. The hearing is entitled, “Broadband: Deploying America’s 21st Century Infrastructure."
Last Congress, #SubCommTech reviewed several proposals to improve broadband deployment. Next week’s hearing will build off of that work and will examine ways to eliminate barriers to broadband infrastructure development. Members will look at draft legislation to streamline the permitting and siting process at the federal level to spur private sector investment and bring increased and more efficient broadband across the country.
“Broadband is a necessity for business in the 21st century and its time our policies reflect that. In fact, many communities across the country would rather have better access to broadband than an additional lane on a highway. For too long problems with permitting and siting have held back further investment in expanding broadband infrastructure across the country," said Chairman Blackburn. “Constituents and businesses back in Tennessee consistently have issues gaining access to broadband. And without a high-speed internet connection, it remains difficult to attract businesses and jobs to these rural areas. I’m looking forward to exploring ways in which we can eliminate the barriers to broadband deployment and get these communities access to vital broadband they desperately need."
The Majority Memorandum, witness list, and witness testimony for the hearing will be available here as they are posted. See Also
* Broadband: Deploying America's 21st Century Infrastructure
