NE Washington News

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers opened the Communications and Technology Subcommittee markup of four bills aimed at safeguarding American communications networks from foreign threats, particularly those posed by the Chinese Communist Party.

Rodgers emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating, “Today, we are marking up four important pieces of legislation that will secure communications networks from threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party and promote U.S. technological leadership." She also expressed gratitude towards her colleagues for their bipartisan efforts in crafting these bills.

Highlighting the threat from China, Rodgers pointed out the risks associated with companies tied to the CCP operating within the American communications landscape. She raised concerns about the potential influence and exploitation by the CCP, citing China's National Intelligence Law and the implications it has for American communications networks.

Rodgers acknowledged previous legislative efforts to address these threats, such as the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act passed in 2020. However, she stressed the need for continued work to mitigate vulnerabilities in consumer equipment that could be exploited by adversaries for espionage.

The Chair outlined the legislative solutions being considered, including the ROUTERS Act to study security risks posed by consumer routers and modems, legislation to restrict the operation of drones manufactured by companies with CCP ties, and measures to enhance transparency regarding CCP-influenced companies operating in the United States.

Furthermore, Rodgers highlighted the Future Networks Act, which aims to establish a task force for the development of sixth-generation wireless technology. She emphasized the importance of staying ahead in technological advancements to secure American leadership in emerging technologies like 6G.

In conclusion, Rodgers emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive response to complex threats from China and other adversaries, urging action to secure critical supply chains, protect allies, strengthen cybersecurity defenses, and engage in strategic competition in key technologies. She commended the bipartisan efforts reflected in the bills under consideration and expressed optimism about advancing them to the full committee for further deliberation.