Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, delivered an opening statement on Mar. 25 at a markup session for two bills focused on public safety communications infrastructure.
Guthrie said the committee is reviewing legislation aimed at improving emergency alert systems and strengthening network reliability during crises. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that Americans can trust communication networks in times of natural disasters or emergencies.
"Many of us have seen natural disasters up close and personal in our districts, and our constituents deserve the best version of the infrastructure and alert systems we are considering today," Guthrie said. He emphasized FirstNet's central role in reliable communication for first responders: "FirstNet is a central part of that mission, and why I am looking forward to advancing the bipartisan First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act today."
The committee has worked with first responders to refine the bill since February, incorporating feedback to strengthen it further. Guthrie thanked Representatives Dunn and McClellan for their leadership in supporting improvements to accountability, reliability, and transparency within FirstNet.
Another bill under consideration is the Mystic Alert Act, led by Representative Pfluger. This legislation would allow satellite alerts to inform people about threats when cell service is unavailable—a need highlighted by recent events experienced by members such as Pfluger.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee addresses issues including energy policy, health care, environmental protection, telecommunications, and consumer affairs according to its official website. The committee has played a role in shaping policy areas like energy innovation, broadband access expansion, and pharmaceutical pricing according to its official website.
Founded as one of the oldest standing committees in Congress according to its official website, it began as the Committee on Commerce and Manufactures in 1795 according to its official website.
Guthrie concluded his remarks by acknowledging bipartisan cooperation: "So I’ll close by thanking Ranking Member Pallone and his staff for working closely with us to advance these joint priorities."
