Bipartisan legislation recently introduced by U.S. Rep. Erik Paulsen (R-MN) would harness public-private collaboration to grow the network of everyday items with internet connectivity, known as the Internet of Things (IoT).
The Developing Innovation and Growing the Internet of Things (DIGIT) Act would establish a working group comprised of government and private-sector entities to provide guidance on regulatory barriers, current and future spectrum needs, and security concerns pertaining to the IoT.
“The Internet of Things holds tremendous potential to not only improve everyday lives, but also solve the most difficult problems we face,” Paulsen said. “Technology is rapidly developing and this bipartisan initiative takes a proactive approach to addressing potential roadblocks to breakthroughs that will pave the way for countless technological advances.”
Paulsen introduced the House bill with U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT), who echoed Paulsen’s comments about the impact the IoT has had on everyday life.
“The Internet of Things is changing our lives in countless ways, from increasing household energy efficiency to improving health outcomes to increasing yields for farmers,” Welch said. “As more devices become interconnected, the federal government should encourage growth and innovation that will benefit consumers and businesses alike.”
U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Cory Gardner (R-CO) introduced bipartisan companion legislation in the Senate.