What's on the agenda for policymakers.
Agenda
The hearing will examine the implementation of science and technology policy and program updates enacted under the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act, and will specifically evaluate progress made by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to implement the act.
This is the first meeting of the Technological Advisory Council for 2018. At its prior meeting on December 6th, 2017, the Council had discussed possible work initiatives for 2018. These initiatives have been discussed in the interim within the FCC, with the TAC chairman, as well as with individual TAC members. At the March meeting, the FCC Technological Advisory Council will discuss its proposed work program for 2018.
Wireless carriers must deliver emergency alerts more precisely
[Commentary] Many officials, from California’s US senators to state public safety representatives, believe that the system for sending emergency alerts to phones needs to be improved. I agree. That’s why, on Jan 30, the Federal Communications Commission will vote on making the wireless emergency alert system more effective.
Tech Giants Brace for Europe’s New Data Privacy Rules
Tech giants are preparing for a stringent new set of data privacy rules in the region, called the General Data Protection Regulation. Set to take effect on May 25, the regulations restrict what types of personal data the tech companies can collect, store and use across the 28-member European Union. Among their provisions, the rules enshrine the so-called right to be forgotten into European law so people can ask companies to remove certain online data about them. The rules also require anyone under 16 to obtain parental consent before using popular digital services.
Prepared Testimony of FCC Public Safety Chief "This is Not a Drill: An Examination of Emergency Alert Systems", Senate Commerce Committee
The false alert issued on January 13th by the State of Hawaii, in which recipients were warned of an imminent ballistic missile attack, was absolutely unacceptable. The Federal Communications Commission acted swiftly in the wake of this incident to open an investigation into the matter.
The INCOMPAS Policy Summit will offer a special opportunity for communications and technology leaders to connect in Washington, D.C. Attendees will hear about the current state of affairs and the future landscape of the communications atmosphere from leaders in the industry, Members from Capitol Hill and the FCC.
The hearing will examine the policy concerns surrounding the use and effectiveness of Emergency Alert Systems including Wireless Emergency Alerts, as well as recent system failures, including but not limited to the mistaken missile alert in Hawaii.
Witnesses:
The State of the Net Conference provides unparalleled opportunities to network and engage on key policy issues.
See agenda
Witnesses
Jonathan Spalter
President and CEO, USTelecom
Brad Gillen
Executive Vice President, CTIA
Matthew Polka
President and CEO, American Cable Association
Nancy White
President and CEO, North Central Telephone Cooperative, Inc.
Agenda
The hearing will focus a path forward for improving broadband infrastructure in rural America. The following legislation will be discussed:
FCC Extends Lifeline Comment Period
The Federal Communications Commission has extended the deadline for public comments in its Lifeline proceeding. Comments now due January 17, 2018; reply comments due February 21, 2018.