The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) license review process would be reformed under bipartisan legislation introduced on Feb. 26 by U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX).
The Keep It Moving Act, H.R. 7742, which Rep. Pfluger sponsored alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), aims to provide greater transparency and accountability in the FCC’s licensing reviews.
“The Keep It Moving Act… ensures that the FCC reviews applications based on the facts and acts within a reasonable timeframe for years and administrations to come,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Proud to lead this legislation alongside Rep. Gottheimer to help deliver better service and lower costs for hardworking families across West Texas and the rest of the country.”
H.R. 7742 would establish strict timelines for the FCC’s review process in an effort to remove delays and bring more transparency and oversight to how applications are handled.
Additionally, the bill would require a full FCC vote to deny any application, ensuring consequential decisions are made by confirmed commissioners accountable to Congress and the American people — not by unelected bureaucrats acting behind closed doors, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Pfluger’s staff.
The legislation is supported by NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, CTIA, and the National Association of Broadcasters.
“We commend Reps. Pfluger and Gottheimer for introducing the Keep it Moving Act and promoting administrative efficiency and procedural certainty in the context of regulatory review,” said Cory Gardner, President & CEO of NCTA. “We look forward to working with them and all Members of Congress on this important issue.”