Sen Wicker's Remarks at Department of Commerce Budget Priorities Hearing

Sen Roger Wicker (R-MS) participated in a hearing to consider the Department of Commerce budget for Fiscal Year 2023, which featured testimony from Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. "Last year’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law placed the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration at the center of our efforts to expand broadband access and close the digital divide," said Wicker. "I look forward to hearing an update on NTIA’s preparation to distribute over $40 billion for broadband buildout to the states, as well as any updates on when the FCC’s new broadband maps will be completed. One key aspect of broadband expansion is improved spectrum coordination. Today’s hearing is an opportunity to discuss how NTIA’s recently announced Spectrum Coordination Initiative with the FCC will promote more efficient and effective spectrum management policies for federal and non-federal users."