Congressmen August Pfluger of Texas and Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) license review process. The proposal, known as the Keep It Moving Act, seeks to address concerns over delays and lack of clarity that have affected FCC license reviews.
According to Rep. Pfluger, “FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and the Trump administration have been working tirelessly to modernize the FCC’s review process to encourage investment, lower costs, and expand access to better serve communities that have been left behind for too long. The Keep It Moving Act supports this goal and ensures that the FCC reviews applications based on the facts and acts within a reasonable timeframe for years and administrations to come,” he said. “Proud to lead this legislation alongside Rep. Gottheimer to help deliver better service and lower costs for hardworking families across West Texas and the rest of the country.”
The bill would set strict timelines for FCC license reviews in order to eliminate unnecessary delays. It would also require a full Commission vote before any application can be denied, making sure such decisions are made by confirmed commissioners rather than unelected staff.
Industry groups have voiced support for the legislation. Hon. Cory Gardner, President & CEO of NCTA, The Internet & Television Association, stated: “We commend Reps. Pfluger and Gottheimer for introducing the Keep it Moving Act and promoting administrative efficiency and procedural certainty in the context of regulatory review. We look forward to working with them and all Members of Congress on this important issue.”
Kelly Cole, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at CTIA, added: “CTIA believes that streamlining outdated and burdensome regulations is essential for America to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving digital marketplace. We commend Representatives Pfluger and Gottheimer for introducing the Keep It Moving Act and recognizing the need to remove unnecessary barriers and delays, which will help foster innovation and ensure the U.S. remains a global leader in wireless technology.”
Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO at NAB, commented: “The National Association of Broadcasters applauds Congressmen Pfluger and Gottheimer for introducing this common-sense and long-overdue legislation. As we have said previously, FCC licensees, and especially local television and radio broadcasters, need certainty that transactions before the Commission will receive a fair hearing and be acted upon in a timely manner. The Keep it Moving Act would provide that clarity and predictability. We look forward to working with Congressmen Pfluger and Gottheimer as this legislation advances and appreciate their leadership in leveling the playing field so local stations can continue serving their communities.”
August Pfluger has represented Texas’s 11th District in Congress since 2021 after replacing Mike Conaway. He was born in Houston in 1978, currently lives in San Angelo, Texas, is 44 years old, and won his seat by defeating Jon Mark Hogg with nearly 80% of votes.
More information about this legislation can be found on Broadband Breakfast.
