NE Washington News

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Bob Latta have announced a markup on legislation aimed at securing American communications networks from foreign adversaries. Rodgers emphasized the importance of safeguarding the country's communications infrastructure, stating, "Our communications networks are an integral part of our lives, businesses, economy, and national security, which is why we cannot afford to jeopardize their security by continuing to rely on technology from foreign adversaries."

The legislation to be discussed during the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology markup includes bills such as the Countering CCP Drones Act, the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act, the FUTURE Networks Act, and the ROUTERS Act. The markup is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET in the 2123 Rayburn House Office Building.

Rodgers and Latta expressed their anticipation for the markup, with Latta emphasizing the need to remove unsecure technologies from American networks to ensure reliability and security. Latta stated, "Homes, schools, hospitals, our financial system, and the military are all at risk as long as equipment sourced from our adversaries remains part of our communications infrastructure. We look forward to marking up several legislative solutions that will safeguard and cement America's leadership in this area for generations to come."

The hearing will be open to the public and press, with live streaming available online. For further information about the hearing, individuals are encouraged to contact Noah Jackson with the Committee staff at Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov. Press-related inquiries can be directed to Sean Kelly at Sean.Kelly@mail.house.gov.