Media Bills in Congress
The Free Press policy team regularly meets with legislators on Capitol Hill to advocate for policies to promote diverse and independent media ownership, an open and accessible Internet, and strong public media.
Below you'll find a list of key pieces of legislation introduced in the current session of Congress. Click on a bill to view more details.
President Obama has signed the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, which appropriates $7.2 billion for broadband stimulus. The law attaches open Internet conditions to broadband funds and directs the FCC to produce a national broadband plan. Click here for more information.
Cell Phone Early Termination Fee, Transparency and Fairness Act
December 4.2009
The legislation follows Verizon Wireless’ decision to increase their Early Termination Fees from $175 to $350 for certain subscribers who end their contracts early. The bill would set limits on Early Termination Fees (ETFs) and require wireless providers to pro-rate ETFs and clearly notify customers about the fee, not only at the time of purchase, but for the duration of their contracts.
Federal Communications Commission Collaboration Act
December 1.2009
The Federal Communications Commission Collaboration Act would facilitate meaningful deliberation and exchange of ideas among FCC Commissioners, while providing a transparent process and important information regarding FCC policy decisions. The bill would also encourage bi-partisan and efficient decision-making at the FCC. Free Press strongly supports this bill.
The Internet Freedom Preservation Act of 2009
July 31.2009
The Internet Freedom Preservation Act of 2009 was introduced by Reps. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) and Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) This landmark legislation would protect Network Neutrality under the Communications Act, safeguarding the future of the open Internet and protecting Internet users from discrimination online.
Radio Spectrum Inventory Act
July 8.2009
The Radio Spectrum Inventory Act was introduced by Energy & Commerce Committee chairman Henry Waxman (D-Ca.) and Communications Subcommittee chairman Henry Boucher (D-Va.).
Radio Spectrum Inventory Act
March 18.2009
The Radio Spectrum Inventory Act, introduced by Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.), would require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Federal Communications Commission to take inventory of the radio spectrum bands they manage. Free Press strongly supports this bill.
Broadband Conduit Deployment Act of 2009
May 14.2009
The Broadband Conduit Deployment Act of 2009, introduced by Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.), would link broadband deployment with federally funded transportation projects. It would direct the Secretary of Transportation to require that broadband conduit be installed as part of highway construction projects. Free Press is monitoring this bill.
Broadband Conduit Deployment Act of 2009
May 14.2009
The legislation would promote more rapid, cost-effective expansion across the country of broadband networks. Free Press strongly supports this bill.
Broadband Internet Fairness Act
June 17.2009
The Broadband Internet Fairness Act, introduced by Rep. Eric Massa (D-N.Y.), would give the government explicit authority to prevent broadband providers from overcharging for Internet access. Free Press strongly supports this bill.
Local Community Radio Act of 2009
February 23.2009
The Local Community Radio Act of 2009, introduced by Reps. Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) and Lee Terry (R- Neb.), would allow new Low Power FM radio stations in communities across the country. Free Press strongly supports this bill.
Local Community Radio Act of 2009
March 11.2009
The Local Community Radio Act, introduced by Sens. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and John McCain (R-Ariz.), would allow new Low Power FM radio stations in communities across the country. Free Press strongly supports this bill.
Newspaper Revitalization Act
March 23.2009
The Newspaper Revitalization Act, introduced by Senator Benjamin Cardin (D-Md.), would allow newspapers to operate as nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, making them tax exempt. Free Press is monitoring this bill.
Free Flow of Information Act of 2009
February 10.2009
The Free Flow of Information Act of 2009 (commonly referred to as the "Shield Law"), introduced by Reps. Rick Boucher (D-Va.) and Mike Pence (R-Ind.), would sets standards for when journalists can be compelled to disclose the identity of confidential sources. Free Press is monitoring this bill.
