Doris Matsui: “I thank Representative Dingell for yielding me time, and I thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Latta), my friend, for his…”

“I thank Representative Dingell for yielding me time, and I thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Latta), my friend, for his bipartisan partnership on this important issue. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the NTIA Reauthorization Act. We introduced this bill to ensure America continues to stand as a global leader in communications and technology. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration, or NTIA, plays a vital role in ensuring the United States' strong technological leadership. This Federal agency is integral for getting people connected, ensuring we can communicate in emergencies, and bolstering our cybersecurity infrastructure. Yet, Congress has not reauthorized NTIA in over 30 years. The pace of innovation and demand for connectivity has increased dramatically over the last few years. We need strong leadership and expertise to help us meet this demand. NTIA advises on the rapid deployment of artificial intelligence and manages the efficient uses of our airways. NTIA is also charged with carrying out the bipartisan infrastructure law's historic $65 billion investment to expand affordable and reliable high-speed internet access to communities across America, communities like the Sacramento region where, just 20 minutes outside the city, rural areas still suffer major gaps in broadband coverage. Progress to close the digital divide, however, is currently at a standstill. This critical broadband funding must not be delayed.…”