Democracy
Is the FCC an Independent Agency? Legal Experts Say Yes
Experts dispute FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's denial of agency independence
Free Speech
Senators Press FCC Chair for First Time Since Kimmel Controversy
Senators confront Carr on broadcast influence, consolidation, and FCC independence
Free Speech
FCC Chairman Faces Scrutiny Ahead of Wednesday Senate Oversight Hearing
Groups call on senators to probe Brendan Carr’s use of public interest and news distortion policies
Spectrum
Spectrum Fight Flares in Defense Bill Negotiations
Opponents warn outcome could hinder U.S. spectrum auctions and innovation.
Free Speech
Senators Clash Over Big Tech ‘Jawboning’ and FCC Power
At hearing, both parties said they backed free speech–but differed on its biggest threat
Privacy
Cruz Blocks Bill to Extend Privacy Protections Nationwide
The bill would prevent data brokers from selling or trading personal information of anyone located in the U.S.
Hill Staffers Split on Permitting, Spectrum and Broadband Expansion
Aides to key telecom lawmakers laid out competing visions for the future of U.S. broadband policy.
Briefs
Senate Commerce Committee Passes NET Act
FCC would need to evaluate impact of network equipment supply chain on broadband access.
Congress
Trusty Gets Her Commerce Committee Vote on April 30
Senate confirmation would give Republicans a 3–2 FCC majority.
Digital Inclusion
Bipartisan PLAN Act Reintroduced in House
Legislation intended to bring broadband to more Americans
Congress
FCC Nominee Olivia Trusty Vows to Balance DoD-Industry Spectrum Demands
During nomination hearing, Trusty pledges to protect universal service while advancing next-gen connectivity.
Section 230
TAKE IT DOWN Act Passes House Commerce, But Not Without a Fight
Democrats warn the law will fall flat without a functional FTC to enforce it.
Briefs
Senate Commerce Committee to Review Key Telecom Nominations
If confirmed, Trusty will cement a Republican majority at the FCC
BEAD
NTIA Nominee Roth Mostly Noncommittal on Key BEAD Issues
Roth offered no guarantees that states won’t have to restart BEAD subgrantee selections.
Congress
Senate Confirms Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary
Lutnick, confirmed 51-45, has emphasized commercial growth in broadband, spectrum, and artificial intelligence.
BEAD
Lawmakers Renew Bill to Address Permitting Delays on Federal Lands
The bill comes as state officials push for reforms to environmental and historic preservation permitting rules under BEAD.
