Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support H.R. 1328, the Advancing Critical Connectivity Expands Service, Small Business Resources, Opportunities, Access, and Data Based on Assessed Need and Demand Act, or the ACCESS BROADBAND Act. Mr. Speaker, I first want to thank my good friend, Representative Brooks, for partnering with me on this legislation. I also thank the bipartisan group of Members who have cosponsored and supported this legislation, including the many members of the Energy and Commerce Committee who agree that these simple steps can make a big difference for the local communities that our Federal broadband programs are meant for. Let me be clear: This bill is about serving the people. While a number of valuable Federal broadband initiatives exist, they are siloed in different agencies and are not often coordinated with one another. As a result, the process for local community and business leaders can be confusing. H.R. 1328, the ACCESS BROADBAND Act, would establish a coordinating office for Federal broadband resources by creating an Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration at the Department of Commerce. Helping these constituents gain access to broadband internet in the capital region is one of the reasons I sought to join the Energy and Commerce Committee and why I have worked to advance this legislation.…”