H.R. 7943: Communications Equity and Diversity Council Act

This bill, known as the Communications Equity and Diversity Council Act, aims to establish an advisory committee called the Communications Equity and Diversity Council within the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The main purposes of the Council are to promote equity and diversity in communication services and to provide recommendations to the FCC on various related matters. Below are the key components of the bill:

Establishment of the Council

The bill sets up the Communications Equity and Diversity Council as an advisory body within the FCC. It will consist of between 30 and 35 members appointed by the Chair of the FCC.

Duties of the Council

The Council will have several responsibilities:

• Make recommendations to the FCC regarding improving access to communication services, ensuring that there is no discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or disability.
• Help underserved groups, such as those historically lacking access, to gain benefits from communication services and related opportunities.
• Encourage the deployment of affordable and reliable communication services to all communities by streamlining regulations that may hinder infrastructure investments.
• Facilitate the entry of small businesses, especially those owned by historically underserved individuals, into the communication sector.
• Support diversity of voices and promote local engagement, economic competition, and technological advancements in communication services.

Forum for Stakeholder Engagement

The Council will serve as a platform for stakeholders in communication services to discuss various issues. These issues include:

• Deployment of services
• Affordability of communication
• Addressing digital discrimination
• Access to capital for businesses
• Mentoring for small businesses
• Upskilling opportunities related to employment
• Diversity in ownership of communication services
• Opportunities for procurement within the sector

Data Development and Industry Trends

The Council is tasked with developing data and analyzing industry trends to assist in fulfilling its duties.

Membership Structure

The Council members will be selected to ensure a balanced representation of viewpoints and expertise, including individuals from:

• Historically underserved communities
• Consumer advocacy groups
• Civil rights organizations
• Industry stakeholders

Each member will serve a two-year term, and vacancies must be filled within 60 days.

Meeting Frequency and Public Access

The Council will meet at least three times a year. All meetings will be open to the public and will require timely notice to be published in the Federal Register. Records of the meetings, including recommendations, summaries, minutes, and presentations, will be accessible to the public.

Funding

The bill authorizes an appropriation of $450,000 for fiscal year 2027 to support the Council's activities.

Definitions

Key terms in the bill are defined as follows:

• Commission: Refers to the Federal Communications Commission.
• Council: The advisory body established by the bill.
• Communication service: Services under the jurisdiction of the FCC.
• Historically underserved individual: Includes individuals of color, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, those in rural areas, and individuals affected by poverty.

Relevant Companies

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