AI
Draft Executive Order Would Tie Non-Deployment Funding to State AI Regulation
The draft would direct NTIA to withhold funds if states regulate AI companies too heavily.
Rural
FCC Chair Offers Few Specifics on Universal Service Reforms
NTCA’s Bloomfield worries Carr’s push for USF ‘efficiency’ could hurt rural providers
Defense Department
CTIA Wants Defense Bill Spectrum Language Cut
The group joins Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C., and the White House.
Free Speech
Senate Commerce Schedules FCC Oversight Hearing
Session follows bipartisan concern over Chairman Brendan Carr’s perceived threats toward broadcast licensees.
Meta
‘Jawboning’ Debate Resumes over Big Tech and Government Power
Both parties pointed at the other for coercing online platforms.
Free Speech
Senate Commerce Free Speech Hearing Targets Government Pressure
Cruz’s upcoming hearing will feature executives from Google, Meta, and the Foundation for Individual Rights.
BEAD
Fischer Wants More Fiber for Nebraska from Trump’s Commerce Department
The Republican Senator did not comment on BEAD non-deployment funding.
Commerce
Senate Commerce Moves to Boost Foreign Investment in High-Tech Sectors
Committee also advances bill to counter cybersecurity risks in oil and gas pipelines.
Spectrum
Spectrum Fight Flares in Defense Bill Negotiations
Opponents warn outcome could hinder U.S. spectrum auctions and innovation.
Digital Inclusion
Mission Telecom to Maintain E-Rate Prices for Off-Campus Wi-Fi After FCC Withdraws Support
Nonprofit carrier offers to help offset lost federal subsidies for 1,280 schools and libraries.
Defense Department
Senate Passes Defense Bill Without Changes to Spectrum Language
The head of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the White House oppose the provision.
government shutdown
Members of Congress Vow to Skip Pay During Shutdown
Lawmakers called it solidarity with federal workers, though the Constitution guarantees their salaries continue.
Free Speech
Sen. Cruz Plans Bill to Combat Government-Driven Censorship
Cruz said recent bipartisan interest could give the bill new momentum
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
Free Speech
Sen. Cruz Says Wikipedia Has ‘Left-Wing Bias’
Cruz launched an inquiry into Wikipedia’s editorial neutrality
FCC
GOP Lawmakers, Attorneys General Want More Expansive Congressional Review Act
The Sixth Circuit ruled in August the FCC could reinstate parts of previously nullified rules.
