What to Expect from the 117th Congress on Tech

The new Congress just gaveled in Jan 3, but top lawmakers are already hashing out their priorities on tech policy. There’s bipartisan appetite for more broadband moves. Lawmakers made increasing broadband access a priority in the latest round of COVID-19 relief talks, allocating billions for the effort, but their work might not be through. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) said one of his top priorities will be to “keep expanding rural broadband.” “It's so essential to make sure that we have it across the entire country,” he said. That’s one major area where Washington may be able to come together, with President-elect Joe Biden and Democratic leaders eyeing their own broadband package. Other things to keep an eye on: 1) The avalanche of antitrust action could be far from over. 2) Revamping Section 230 is a top target — if Congress can figure out how. 3) Lawmakers are hoping something shakes up privacy talks.