A federal plan would be developed for how the United States advances and advocates for Wi-Fi and other unlicensed technologies under a bipartisan bill sponsored on June 4 by U.S. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH).
“As global competition over reliable Wi-Fi and spectrum policy continues to grow, this legislation will help ensure America remains competitive and well-positioned for the future,” said Rep. Latta, who introduced the Advancing American Wi-Fi Against Foreign Adversaries Act, H.R. 9151. He sponsored the bill alongside cosponsor and fellow co-chair of the Wi-Fi Caucus U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA) ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference being held in Shanghai, China in fall 2027.
“As we prepare for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, congressional oversight is essential to ensure the United States is ready and speaking with one voice during these high-stakes international negotiations,” Rep. Latta said. “I am proud to introduce this bill alongside my colleague, Rep. Carter, to strengthen U.S. leadership in global spectrum policy ahead of this critical conference cycle.”
H.R. 9151 would bolster coordination between the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the Federal Communications Commission, and the U.S. State Department, and promote a consistent international approach to unlicensed spectrum use without binding the U.S. to specific technical standards or outcomes, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Latta’s staff.
“Reliable, affordable Wi-Fi is not a luxury — it is a lifeline for families, small businesses, and communities across Louisiana,” said Rep. Carter. “This bipartisan legislation ensures that as we head into the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, the United States shows up unified, prepared, and committed to protecting the connectivity that powers our economy and our way of life.”
NCTA ‒ The Internet & Television Association supports H.R. 9151, which has been referred to both the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee and the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee for consideration.