House Committee on Energy and Commerce

Communications & Technology Updates

Apr 22, 2026

Committees on Energy and Commerce and Financial Services Introduce Pair of Privacy Bills to Establish Comprehensive Data Protections for All Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), Leader of the Energy and Commerce Data Privacy Working Group and Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, joined Congressman French Hill (AR-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02), Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services, and Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence, to introduce their respective legislation, the SECURE Data Act and the GUARD Financial Data Act.

Attributable to Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Congress, and Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), Leader of the Energy and Commerce Data Privacy Working Group and Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations:

“The Energy and Commerce Data Privacy Working Group was created to reset the discussion on comprehensive data privacy, taking wide ranging input from stakeholders and crafting a consensus bill that protects the privacy and security of Americans’ personal data. The SECURE Data Act is the result. This bill establishes clear, enforceable protections so that Americans remain in charge of their own data and companies are held accountable for its safe keeping. We look forward to working with our colleagues to build support for this bill and advance data privacy protections fit for our 21st century economy.”

Attributable to Congressman French Hill (AR-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services, and Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence:

“For decades, Americans have entrusted financial institutions to maintain the privacy and security of their financial information. Twenty-six years ago, when the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) became law, it was written in a technology-neutral fashion that has adapted well to the changes in technology and types of consumer data that have developed since 1999. But, in that time, the volume and complexity of data have increased such that providing consumers greater control over their financial data has become imperative.

“That is why we have introduced the GUARD Financial Data Act to modernize the GLBA. Our bill minimizes data collection and disclosures; allows customers and former customers to request access to their financial data held by a financial institution; allows former customers of a financial institution to request deletion of their data; and requires a financial institution to receive a consumer’s affirmative opt-in consent before sensitive personal information can be disclosed.

“The Financial Services Committee is proud to introduce these commonsense protections in coordination with the Energy and Commerce Committee as part of a unified House Republican effort to ensure Americans’ data privacy rights. This effort represents a significant step to strengthen consumer protections and ensure Americans have control over their financial data. We look forward to continuing to work together as these measures progress through the legislative process.”

BACKGROUND:

Congressman John Joyce, M.D. led the Energy and Commerce Data Privacy Working Group.
The working group received over 250 written responses and held meetings with over 170 different organizations to gather feedback and create the strongest bill possible.
In addition to Congressman John Joyce, M.D., each member of the working group will be sponsors of the bill, including Representatives Morgan Griffith (VA-09),Troy Balderson (OH-12), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Russell Fry (SC-07), Nick Langworthy (NY-23), Tom Kean (NJ-07), Craig Goldman (TX-12), and Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL).
The SECURE Data Act:
Establishes a national privacy and data security standard to protect the personal data of all Americans and their families.
Builds on the proven framework adopted by the overwhelming majority of states that have enacted comprehensive privacy and data security laws.
Establishes new rights for consumers and obligations for companies—enforced by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys-general.

Consumer Privacy Rights

Consumers will have the right to:
Know their data is being collected and used.
Access a copy of their personal data, including in a portable format.
Delete their personal data.
Opt-out of targeted advertising, sales of personal data, and certain automated decisions.
Sensitive data can only be processed with a consumer’s consent.
A parent’s consent is required to process a child and teens’ personal data.

Commonsense Obligations on Businesses

Companies must:
Limit their collection of personal data to what is “adequate, relevant, and reasonably necessary” for the purposes disclosed to consumers.
Disclose what personal data they share with others, including any personal data processed in or sold to China, Russia, or other foreign adversaries.
Implement data security practices to protect the personal data they process.
Data brokers must:
Comply with the data minimization, disclosure, and data security requirements.
Register with the FTC and provide information about their privacy and data security practices and about the personal data they sell.
The FTC will establish a searchable public-facing registry of data brokers, where consumers can learn how to exercise their privacy rights.

Advances American Leadership in the Global Digital Economy

The Secretary of Commerce is empowered to:
Continue its longstanding promotion of cross-border data flows and the protection of personal data in international commerce.
Address the negative impacts of foreign data localization and data transfer restrictions.
Protect Americans’ data from the risks posed by foreign adversaries.

CLICK HERE to read the Energy and Commerce and Financial Services Committees joint one-pager.

CLICK HERE to view the Committee on Energy and Commerce’s SECURE Data Act.

CLICK HERE to view the Committee on Financial Services’ GUARD Financial Data Act.

Apr 15, 2026

Communications & Technology

Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson Announce Hearing on Updating Satellite Regulations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced a hearing titled SAT Streamlining Act: Modernizing Satellite Licensing for the Final Frontier.

“American innovators are at the leading edge of technological advancements that will serve our families and businesses for years to come. Unfortunately, our laws governing satellite technologies often do not reflect our ability and shared goal to continue that progress,” said Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson. “We look forward to a conversation about modernizing our regulations so that bureaucracy and red tape do not prevent another great American century.”

Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing titled SAT Streamlining Act: Modernizing Satellite Licensing for the Final Frontier.

WHAT: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing on updating satellite regulations.

DATE: Tuesday, April 21, 2026

TIME: 2:00 PM ET

LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building

This hearing will focus on the following bill:

H.R. 8255, the SAT Streamlining Act (Rep. Brett Guthrie)

This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed online at energycommerce.house.gov. If you have any questions concerning this hearing, please contact Noah Jackson with the Committee staff at Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov. If you have any press-related questions, please contact Daniel Kelly at Daniel.Kelly@mail.house.gov.

Mar 20, 2026

Press Release

Johnson, Scalise, Guthrie, Jordan, Babin: House Will Work to Implement National AI Framework

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04), Majority Leader Steve Scalise (LA-01), Congressman Jim Jordan (OH-04), Chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary, and Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36), Chairman of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, issued the following statement after the White House released a federal AI framework . “AI has begun to demonstrate its potential to improve Americans’ lives. To ensure we continue to harness its potential and beat China in the global AI race, Congress must take action. Today, the Trump Administration took a critical step in releasing a framework that gives Congress a roadmap to pursue legislation that provides innovators with much-needed certainty, while protecting consumers and prioritizing kids’ online safety. House Republicans look forward to working across the aisle to enact a national framework that unleashes the full potential of AI, cements the U.S. as the global leader, and provides important protections for American families.” ###

Mar 19, 2026

Press Release

Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson Announce Hearing to Review the 1996 Telecom Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced a hearing titled The Telecommunications Act of 1996: 30 Years Later . “The communications marketplace has transformed dramatically in the thirty years since the Telecommunications Act of 1996 was signed into law,” said Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson. “ This hearing will examine what parts of the law have worked, what have not, and how Congress can build on those lessons to modernize our laws to promote innovation, strengthen competition, and drive investment in modern communications networks.” Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing titled The Telecommunications Act of 1996: 30 Years Later. WHAT: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing to review the 1996 Telecom Act. DATE: Thursday, March 26, 2026 TIME: 10:15 AM ET LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed online at energycommerce.house.gov . If you have any questions concerning this hearing, please contact Noah Jackson with the Committee staff at Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov . If you have any press-related questions, please contact Daniel Kelly at Daniel.Kelly@mail.house.gov . ###

Mar 9, 2026

Communications & Technology

Chairman Guthrie and Ranking Member Pallone Ask President Trump to Brief and Help Coordinate Unified U.S. Strategy for WRC-27

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump urging coordination across agencies to establish clear, unified positions for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) in Shanghai, China. KEY EXCERPTS: “We appreciate that, despite the location and the inevitable challenges that come with it, your Administration recognizes that the United States should remain an active participant in this conference. Participants will make key decisions that will establish the spectrum bands and technical rules for next-generation communications technology, including 6G, for the satellite and commercial mobile radio industries.” […] “To ensure our best opportunity for success at WRC-27, it is essential that our nation coordinates across all federal agencies and with the private sector to establish clear, unified positions for WRC-27.” […] “Failing to establish clear national positions on these matters risks undercutting our own advocacy and giving the PRC the upper hand.” Background: Under CCP leadership, the PRC has made significant strides in their quest to overtake the United States as the world’s technology leader by subsidizing and stealing technology across a wide range of industries, including communications technologies, all of which puts Americans at risk. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU)—who will host WRC-27—is responsible for international coordination of communications services, including global spectrum allocations and satellite orbits. The ITU’s Plenipotentiary Conference takes place later this year and will oversee the election of multiple positions within the organization, including Secretary-General, the 48-seat Council that governs the ITU, and 12 Radio Regulations Board members. CLICK HERE to read the full letter. ###

Mar 9, 2026

Press Release

Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson Announce Hearing on the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced a hearing titled Securing U.S. Leadership of Communications Technology . “To compete, innovate, and succeed in the 21st century, the United States must lead the development and deployment of cutting-edge digital devices and services,” said Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson. “Despite taking place in Shanghai, China, in 2027, the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) is a critical opportunity to pursue American interests and shape global communications policy. Constructive, bipartisan discussions, such as next week’s hearing, will help inform Congress on the challenges and opportunities ahead, in order to develop a unified vision for WRC-27.” Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing titled Securing U.S. Leadership of Communications Technology. WHAT: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing on the World Radiocommunication Conference. DATE: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 TIME: 2:00 PM ET LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed online at energycommerce.house.gov . If you have any questions concerning this hearing, please contact Noah Jackson with the Committee staff at Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov . If you have any press-related questions, please contact Daniel Kelly at Daniel.Kelly@mail.house.gov . ###

Feb 24, 2026

Press Release

Chairman Guthrie Celebrates President Trump’s SOTU Address, Marking an Era of Prosperity and Strength for America’s 250th

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, issued a statement following President Trump’s State of the Union Address to a Joint Session of Congress: “Tonight, President Trump laid out a bold vision for the American people as we celebrate the 250th anniversary since our founding. By unleashing American energy dominance, we can lower energy costs, strengthen our national security, and power innovation. As the President discussed in his speech, we must rely on baseload power from coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear, and hydropower that can provide the on-demand electricity we need. Our Committee will remain focused on cutting red tape and lowering prices for hard-working families. “ House Republicans stand with President Trump tonight, with a strong focus on making life more affordable for everyday Americans—not only when it comes to energy prices, but when it comes to the cost of health care, too. Previous Democrat administrations effectively broke our American health care system, and I applaud President Trump in his steadfast efforts to fix it. Through programs like TrumpRx, Americans now have access to the lowest cost prescription drugs. Through commitments like Making America Healthy Again, Americans see the promise of health improvements for generations to come. Our country’s milestone of 250 years signifies an opportunity to put the wellbeing of Americans back at the forefront of our health care system. “ As we look to the future, adversaries are challenging our standing as the world’s greatest innovator. Americans have the creativity and the skills to compete on the world stage, but we need the regulatory environment to match our aspirations. The President and I share a vision for a future where the United States can lead the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies and Americans enjoy the benefits of these advances. “ Tonight, the President outlined a vision of prosperity shared widely across the Republican Party. By unleashing American energy, lowering health care prices, and supporting U.S. innovators, President Trump and Committee Republicans are in lockstep fighting to address the issues that matter most to American families.” ###

Feb 10, 2026

Communications & Technology

C&T Subcommittee Forwards FirstNet Reauthorization Bill to Full Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, led a markup of a bill to reauthorize FirstNet.

“Reliable communications are absolutely essential for our first responders in emergencies. While a lot has been done to stand up this first-of-its-kind public safety communications network, there is more work to do to ensure the promise of FirstNet is fulfilled. In my home state of North Carolina, first responders have shared their frustrations about FirstNet not working during Hurricane Helene,” said Chairman Hudson. “The reforms included in the legislation before us today are intended to ensure that FirstNet delivers a reliable, interoperable communications network to our first responders and the FirstNet Authority acts in the best interests of the public safety community it serves.”

Legislative Vote Summary:

H.R. 7386, The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act, was forwarded to the Full Committee by a voice vote.

Watch the full markup here.

Below are key excerpts from today’s markup:

Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02): “We are continuing to hear from public safety groups and other stakeholders about ways to improve certain provisions in this legislation, and we will continue to work with them in good faith to improve the bill. We want to ensure that our first responders have the most reliable communications network when they need it most.”

Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02): “When Congress created the First Responder Network Authority, there was a clear mandate to have a public safety preemptive network that would be used exclusively for first responders on the ground. Our nation's heroes and public servants alike, who are the first to respond, the first people to put their lives on the line, deserve a robust communication system. This is a very clear mandate to give our local communities the resources they need to respond to tragedies.”

Congressman Craig Goldman (TX-12): “In my district, FirstNet is not some abstract policy. It's a daily necessity. Local first responders rely on FirstNet every day to maintain secure, reliable communication during emergencies, natural disasters, and major incidents in Tarrant County. FirstNet also plays an important role in supporting the District Attorney's Office by ensuring smooth coordination with law enforcement and public safety partners, particularly during high-risk operations and large-scale investigations.”

Feb 6, 2026

Communications & Technology

Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson Announce C&T Subcommittee Markup of Bill to Reauthorize FirstNet

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced a subcommittee markup of a bill to reauthorize FirstNet.

WHAT: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology markup of one bill.

DATE: Tuesday, February 10, 2026

TIME: 2:00 PM ET

LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building

Item to be considered:

H.R. 7386, The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act (Reps. Dunn and McClellan)

This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed online at energycommerce.house.gov. If you have any questions concerning this hearing, please contact Noah Jackson at Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov. If you have any press-related questions, please contact Daniel Kelly at Daniel.Kelly@mail.house.gov.