John Rice Carter: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 1343, the ITS Codification…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 1343, the ITS Codification Act. This legislation would codify the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences, which plays a critical role in making spectrum available for commercial use. As we examine how Federal and commercial spectrum is allocated, it is our job as Members to ensure the agencies tasked with managing spectrum have the technical resources they need to be successful in their missions. ITS is an essential part of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and we must strengthen its statutory authority to ensure it continues informing important spectrum policy decisions. This testing center will also play an important role in America's ability to stay ahead of international competitors like China on spectrum policy. I am confident ITS will continue to contribute to innovative advancements that are crucial for our global competitiveness. This bill also directs ITS to establish an initiative to support the development of emergency communication and tracking technologies for use in locating trapped individuals in confined spaces. This is an important initiative that has the potential to protect and save American lives. Last Congress, this bill went through regular order and enjoyed unanimous support on the House floor. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation.”