Walberg, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Telecommunications Networks

Reps. Tim Walberg (R-MI), Doris Matsui (D-CA), and Rick Allen (R-GA) have introduced the Future Uses of Technology Upholding Reliable and Enhanced (FUTURE) Networks Act. The bipartisan bill would direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a 6G Task Force comprised of industry, government, and public interest representatives to produce a report on the adoption of next-generation wireless communications technology. 

"Our economic and national security depend on the United States remaining the leader in wireless technology," said Rep Walberg. "I am proud to partner with Representatives Matsui and Allen to introduce this vital legislation which brings stakeholders together to continue to strengthen our networks to protect them from cyberattacks, improve wireless security, and promote innovation. The FUTURE Networks Act will better prepare us for the future deployment of next-generation 6G networks."  

“To keep America at the vanguard of wireless communications technology, we need to be proactive in our preparations for the next generation of networks,” said Rep. Matsui. “6G holds the potential to revolutionize connectivity, support smart transport, and supercharge augmented reality applications for education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The race to 6G isn’t just about faster phones – it’s about national security, economic security, and America’s standing on the international stage. The FUTURE Networks Act will bring together experts within the communications industry, academia, public interest organizations, and government to accelerate U.S. leadership in next-generation communications.”

“6G is the future of telecommunications and we must ensure the United States is a global leader in this emerging technology,” said Rep. Allen. “Just like in the business world, we want the best, most qualified individuals to have a seat at the table. By establishing a 6G Task Force, we can bring together America’s brightest industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to collaborate on the future deployment of 6G and strengthening our wireless networks. As Vice Chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, I am proud to co-lead the FUTURE Networks Act this Congress.”

Specifically, the FUTURE Networks Act would require the FCC to establish a 6G Task Force comprised of industry, government, and public interest representatives to issue a report on:

• The role of standards setting bodies in 6G
• Possible use cases for 6G technology
• Potential threats such as supply chain or cybersecurity, and;
• Interagency coordination and promoting deployment

Congressman Walberg serves as a co-chair on the 5G and Beyond Caucus. For more information on Walberg's work in Congress visit walberg.house.gov.