Gus M. Bilirakis
Representative for Florida · Republican · United States
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. I rise today in strong support of the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation that will save lives by ensuring continued access to stem cell, bone marrow, and cord blood transplants for patients across our Nation.”
“I am grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working together to advance this important piece of legislation. Mr. Speaker, Representative Smith of New Jersey has done an outstanding job over the years. He has done a great job leading this particular bill. He works on bills, Mr.”
“For far too long, medically retired servicemembers wounded in combat have been forced to forfeit a portion of the retirement pay they earned simply because they also receive VA disability compensation, and that is wrong. That is the so-called wounded veteran tax, and it is fundamentally unjust.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership and thank him for this great package that will support our veterans. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Take Care of America's Veterans Act. First and foremost, this legislation delivers long-overdue justice by including key provisions of my Major Richard Star Act.”
“I appreciate it so very much, and I thank the chairman for his leadership. It enhances mental health services, expands care in rural communities, improves transition assistance for servicemembers entering civilian life, and modernizes VA facilities to better serve future generations. The SPEAKER pro tempore.”
“Most importantly, this bill honors the legacy of Major Richard Star, who fought tirelessly to correct this injustice before his passing. His determination has brought us to this moment, and today, we have the opportunity to continue that fight on behalf of thousands of deserving veterans.”
The complete record
Every one of 365 lines we hold for Gus M. Bilirakis, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 3 of 8.
“Above all, Casey Thieryung exemplifies what it means to be a Local Hero--not for accolades or recognition, but because he truly cares about his hometown and its people. His selfless dedication, unwavering passion, and boundless generosity have made an enduring difference in Brooksville. For these reasons, Casey is a deserving recipient of the Local Hero Award, and it is with great pride that we nominate him for this honor. It is clear Casey Thieryung has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Through the Red Mule Pub, he has hosted and participated in numerous fundraising efforts, donating time, resources, and space to causes that benefit the less fortunate, veterans, first responders, and community programs. His generosity has directly impacted countless individuals and families in need, reinforcing the sense of unity that defines Brooksville. Casey's leadership extends to mentoring and supporting others in the community. He is known for offering guidance and encouragement to young entrepreneurs, fellow business owners, and civic leaders. His ability to bring people together for a common cause has strengthened the bonds within Brooksville, fostering collaboration and goodwill among diverse groups of residents.”
“He was always accessible, listening to the concerns of citizens and striving to make decisions that benefited the entire community. Beyond his official role in government, Casey has dedicated countless hours to various civic organizations that make Brooksville a better place to live. He is an active member of multiple local groups, always stepping up to help organize community events, support charitable initiatives, and lend a hand wherever needed. His volunteerism [[Page E345]] has been instrumental in projects that promote economic growth, cultural enrichment and social well-being in Brooksville. One of Casey's most notable contributions is his unwavering support for local charities and nonprofit organizations.”
“As the dedicated owner of the Red Mule Pub, a beloved local establishment, Casey has created more than just a restaurant--he has built a gathering place where residents feel at home. However, his contributions to the community extend far beyond his business. Through tireless volunteer efforts, active participation in civic organizations, and a deep commitment to public service, Casey has left a lasting impact on Brooksville and its people. A true public servant, Casey served as a City Council member for the City of Brooksville, where he worked diligently to improve the quality of life for residents. His time on the Council was marked by his advocacy for local businesses, support for community development projects, and dedication to preserving the town's historic charm.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E344-E345] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CASEY THIERYUNG ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Casey Thieryung has made to our community as a volunteer for Brooksville Main Street. Casey embodies the spirit of community service and leadership that makes Brooksville a special place.”
“A truly selfless leader, Casey was a strong advocate for bringing in government and non- profit resources to aid in the recovery process. It is clear that Casey ``KC'' Gabelli has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for Casey's service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E344] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CASEY ``KC'' GABELLI ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Casey ``KC'' Gabelli has made to our community in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing countless hours of direct support to neighbors and flood victims, Casey helped coordinate the collection and distribution of emergency supplies, meals and donated services to help those who needed help.”
“Most recently, his volunteerism brought David to muck out homes where the water has finally receded. It is clear David Cruz has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“David is the Disaster preparedness Coordinator for the Knights for the Dioceses of St. Petersburg which encompasses Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando counties. After Hurricane Milton, David was assigned to accompany and work with a Medical Crew from Ohio. Together, they treated over 400 patients providing medical assistance to those in need. The team also worked with Fresh Start for Pasco to feed shut-ins in East Pasco for Thanksgiving. David has worked on bringing together many of the spiritual groups and civic organizations within the community to help hurricane victims. Thanks to these efforts, Our Lady Queen of Peace served 12,000 families during the six weeks after the hurricanes. David still works with Fresh Start for Pasco, Endeavors, and Pinellas Emergency Operations Center to help victims of disasters.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E343] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING DAVID CRUZ ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that David Cruz made to our community through his voluateerism with the Knights of Columbus. When Hurricane Beryl hit Texas, Operation Barbeque Relief sent David to Texas. While there, he organized 21 Knights in six days to make 7,500 meals a day. These meals were fed to relief workers and victims of the hurricane.”
“Their remarkable achievements during Hurricane Helene and Milton, coupled with their dedication to long-term recovery and cutting-edge approaches to disaster management, have left an indelible mark on Pasco County. It is clear Danielle Bierman has made a profoundly positive impact on our community with his work as part of the Pasco County Human Services Team, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“For approximately 150 permanently displaced residents, they implemented a housing eligibility process, with the intent of ensuring fair and transparent allocation of resources. By securing placements at facilities like Pasco Hope, the team supported individuals and families along a pathway to rebuild their lives. Between September 28 and October 18, 2024, the team managed an overwhelming volume of call--1,194 through their direct line and another 1,214 through work phones. Yet every call was met with care, professionalism, and actionable solutions, reflecting the team's deep commitment to being a lifeline for the community. The Pasco County Human Services Team exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence, compassion, and innovation.”
“Their dedication shone through in rapid response efforts. In the days immediately following Hurricane Helene, 49 residents received critical assessments and essential resources. After Hurricane Milton, they worked with 225 displaced individuals who remained in shelters, demonstrating their unparalleled ability to adapt and respond under pressure. The team leveraged the Human Services Needs app to streamline disaster case management, supporting 1,351 residents. Their follow-up system, in partnership with other agencies, ensured personalized service for every individual. This innovative approach epitomized their ability to harness technology and partnerships for meaningful impact. Beyond immediate relief, the team worked with individuals and families who would require long-term recovery efforts.”
“Amidst the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, they emerged as an indispensable force, transforming challenges into triumphs and ensuring no resident was left behind. The team managed and helped coordinate efforts for shelters that housed 485 residents. When Hurricane Milton struck shortly thereafter, the team rose to even greater heights, coordinating shelters for 5,800 individuals and 1,315 animals--an extraordinary feat of operational precision and compassion. Despite personal hardships, including one case manager losing her home while another lost her rental property, the team prioritized the welfare of the community, working tirelessly to ensure safety and stability for all. Post-storm, the team was responsible for helping shelter residents whose homes were no longer safe, find appropriate alternatives for housing.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E341] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING DANIELLE BIERMAN ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Danielle Bierman has made through her work with the Pasco County Human Services Team. The Pasco County Human Services Team has proven itself to be a cornerstone of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the community.”
“Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this motion will be postponed. ____________________”
“Mr. Speaker, I commend Representative Fulcher, the vice chairman of the subcommittee, and also Representative Mouton for this really good bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge unanimous passage, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Wittman). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 859. The question was taken. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.”
“Mr. Speaker, I couldn't agree more. There is no question that this is definitely needed. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Idaho (Mr. Fulcher), the vice chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade under Energy and Commerce.”
“This bipartisan legislation seeks to address this gap by requiring manufacturers of internet-connected devices that contain a microphone or camera, but aren't marketed as consumer electronics, to disclose the presence of these components to consumers. This is a very important bill. I commend the vice chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade for sponsoring this particular bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge unanimous support for H.R. 859, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 859, the Informing Consumers About Smart Devices Act led by Representative Fulcher. In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable advancements in consumer goods technologies. While these innovations certainly make daily life more convenient, they also carry the risk of collecting data from users, often without their knowledge. It is clear to most people that devices like laptops have the capability to record sound and video. It may not be so obvious that other household devices such as televisions or refrigerators can do the same thing.”
“Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on this particular bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida? There was no objection.”
“This Act shall apply to all covered devices manufactured after the date that is 180 days after the date on which guidance is issued by the Commission under section 3(c), and shall not apply to covered devices manufactured or sold before such date, or otherwise introduced into interstate commerce before such date. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. Dingell) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida. {time} 1700 General Leave”
“2052(a)) that is capable of connecting to the internet, a component of which is a camera or microphone; and (2) does not include-- (A) a telephone (including a mobile phone), a laptop, tablet, or any device that a consumer would reasonably expect to have a microphone or camera; (B) any device that is specifically marketed as a camera, telecommunications device, or microphone; or (C) any device or apparatus described in sections 255, 716, and 718, and subsections (aa) and (bb) of section 303 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 255; 617; 619; and 303(aa) and (bb)), and any regulations promulgated thereunder. SEC. 5. EFFECTIVE DATE.”
“(e) Limitation on Commission Guidance.--No guidance issued by the Commission with respect to this Act shall confer any rights on any person, State, or locality, nor shall operate to bind the Commission or any person to the approach recommended in such guidance. In any enforcement action brought pursuant to this Act, the Commission shall allege a specific violation of a provision of this Act. The Commission may not base an enforcement action on, or execute a consent order based on, practices that are alleged to be inconsistent with any such guidelines, unless the practices allegedly violate section 2. SEC. 4. DEFINITION OF COVERED DEVICE. As used in this Act, the term ``covered device''-- (1) means a consumer product, as defined by section 3(a) of the Consumer Product Safety Act (15 U.S.C.”
“(c) Commission Guidance.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission, through outreach to relevant private entities, shall issue guidance to assist manufacturers in complying with the requirements of this Act, including guidance about best practices for making the disclosure required by section 2 as clear and conspicuous and age appropriate as practicable and about best practices for the use of a pictorial (as defined in section 2(a) of the Consumer Review Fairness Act of 2016 (15 U.S.C. 45b(a))) visual representation of the information to be disclosed. (d) Tailored Guidance.--A manufacturer of a covered device may petition the Commission for tailored guidance as to how to meet the requirements of section 2 consistent with existing rules of practice or any successor rules.”
“(2) Penalties and privileges.--Any person who violates this Act or a regulation promulgated under this Act shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.). (3) Savings clause.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to limit the authority of the Commission under any other provision of law.”
“ENFORCEMENT BY THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION. (a) Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices.--A violation of section 2 shall be treated as a violation of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice prescribed under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)). (b) Actions by the Commission.-- (1) In general.--The Federal Trade Commission (in this Act referred to as the ``Commission'') shall enforce this Act in the same manner, by the same means, and with the [[Page H1667]] same jurisdiction, powers, and duties as though all applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) were incorporated into and made a part of this Act.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 859) to require the disclosure of a camera or recording capability in certain internet-connected devices. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 859 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act''. SEC. 2. REQUIRED DISCLOSURE OF A CAMERA OR RECORDING CAPABILITY IN CERTAIN INTERNET-CONNECTED DEVICES. Each manufacturer of a covered device shall disclose, clearly and conspicuously and prior to purchase, whether the covered device manufactured by the manufacturer contains a camera or microphone as a component of the covered device. SEC. 3.”
“Mr. Speaker, in closing, I commend Representative Wittman and Representative Castor for their good work on this particular bill, and I urge passage. I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Fulcher). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 906. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 906, the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act, led by the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Wittman), my good friend. Entities with ties to our adversaries--China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea--are threats to our communications networks, unfortunately, but it is a reality. This legislation requires the FCC to publish a list of those entities holding a license, authorization, or other authority granted by the FCC. Understanding which adversaries are in our networks and the threats they pose, is necessary to securing our networks. I thank Representative Wittman, a great Member, for his leadership on this bill, which passed last Congress by voice vote, and I urge my colleagues to support this very important and necessary bill.”
“Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material in the Record on this particular bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida? There was no objection.”
“(2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal Communications Commission. (3) Covered country.--The term ``covered country'' means a country specified in section 4872(f)(2) of title 10, United States Code. (4) Covered entity.--The term ``covered entity'' means-- (A) the government of a covered country; (B) an entity organized under the laws of a covered country; and (C) a subsidiary of an entity described in subparagraph (B), regardless of whether the subsidiary is organized under the laws of a covered country. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. Dingell) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida. General Leave”
“(c) Paperwork Reduction Act Exemption.--A collection of information conducted or sponsored by the Commission to implement this section does not constitute a collection of information for the purposes of subchapter I of chapter 35 of title 44, United States Code (commonly referred to as the ``Paperwork Reduction Act''). (d) Annual Updates.--The Commission shall, not less frequently than annually, update the list published under subsection (a), including with respect to any entity required to be placed on such list by subsection (b)(2). (e) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Appropriate national security agency.--The term ``appropriate national security agency'' has the meaning given such term in section 9 of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (47 U.S.C. 1608).”
“(b) Rulemaking.-- (1) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commission shall issue rules to obtain information to identify each entity-- (A) that holds any authorization, license, or other grant of authority issued by the Commission (other than a license described in subsection (a)(1)); and (B) with respect to which a covered entity holds an equity or voting interest that is required to be reported to the Commission under the ownership rules of the Commission. (2) Placement on list.--Not later than 1 year after the Commission issues the rules required by paragraph (1), the Commission shall place each entity described in such paragraph on the list published under subsection (a).”
“301 note; relating to the performance of certain functions vested in or subject to the approval of the President); and (2) with respect to which-- (A) a covered entity holds an equity or voting interest that is required to be reported to the Commission under the ownership rules of the Commission; or (B) an appropriate national security agency has determined that a covered entity exerts control, regardless of whether such covered entity holds an equity or voting interest as described in subparagraph (A).”
“(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commission shall publish on the internet website of the Commission a list of each entity-- (1) that holds a license issued by the Commission pursuant to-- (A) section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 309(j)); or (B) the Act of May 27, 1921 (47 U.S.C. 34 et seq.; commonly known as the ``Cable Landing Licensing Act'') and Executive Order 10530 (3 U.S.C.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 906) to direct the Federal Communications Commission to publish a list of entities that hold authorizations, licenses, or other grants of authority issued by the Commission and that have certain foreign ownership, and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 906 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act''. SEC. 2. LIST OF ENTITIES HOLDING FCC AUTHORIZATIONS, LICENSES, OR OTHER GRANTS OF AUTHORITY AND HAVING CERTAIN FOREIGN OWNERSHIP.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. I commend Representative Allen, the vice chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee; Representative Matsui, the ranking member; and also my good friend, Mr. Walberg, for this very important bill. I encourage Members to vote ``yes'' on this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2449. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this bill, H.R. 2449, the FUTURE Networks Act led by Representative Matsui and Representative Allen. United States leadership in 6G technology is critical for both our economic and national security. This bill would direct the FCC to establish a 6G Task Force made up of both public and private-sector participants to develop a report on the standards development process and possible uses of sixth-generation technology. This task force will ensure that the United States has a unified position to cement our leadership in 6G, which is so critical. This legislation has strong bipartisan support. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on this particular bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida? There was no objection.”
“(5) Task force.--The term ``Task Force'' means the 6G Task Force established under subsection (a). The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. Dingell) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida. General Leave”
“(3) Not trusted.-- (A) In general.--The term ``not trusted'' means, with respect to an entity, that-- (i) the Chair has made a public determination that such entity is owned by, controlled by, or subject to the influence of a foreign adversary; or (ii) the Chair otherwise determines that such entity poses a threat to the national security of the United States. (B) Criteria for determination.--In making a determination under subparagraph (A)(ii), the Chair shall use the criteria described in paragraphs (1) through (4) of section 2(c) of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (47 U.S.C. 1601(c)), as appropriate. (4) State.--The term ``State'' has the meaning given such term in section 3 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 153).”
“(2) Draft report; public comment.--The Task Force shall-- (A) not later than 180 days after the date on which the Task Force is established under subsection (a), publish in the Federal Register and on the website of the Commission a draft of the report required by paragraph (1); and (B) accept public comments on such draft and take such comments into consideration in preparing the final version of such report. (d) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Chair.--The term ``Chair'' means the Chair of the Commission. (2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal Communications Commission.”
“(c) Report.-- (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the Task Force is established under subsection (a), the Task Force shall publish in the Federal Register and on the website of the Commission, and submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and [[Page H1664]] Transportation of the Senate, a report on sixth-generation wireless technology, including-- (A) the status of industry-led standards-setting bodies in setting standards for such technology; (B) possible uses of such technology identified by industry-led standards-setting bodies that are setting standards for such technology; (C) any limitations of such technology (including any supply chain or cybersecurity limitations) identified by industry-led standards-setting bodies that are setting standards for such technology; and (D) how to best work with entities across the Federal Government, State governments, local governments, and Tribal Governments to leverage such technology, including with regard to siting, deployment, and adoption.”
“(b) Membership.-- (1) Appointment.--The members of the Task Force shall be appointed by the Chair. (2) Composition.--To the extent practicable, the membership of the Task Force shall be composed of the following: (A) Representatives of companies in the communications industry, except companies that are determined by the Chair to be not trusted. (B) Representatives of public interest organizations or academic institutions, except public interest organizations or academic institutions that are determined by the Chair to be not trusted. (C) Representatives of the Federal Government, State governments, local governments, or Tribal Governments, with at least one member representing each such type of government.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 2449) to direct the Federal Communications Commission to establish a task force to be known as the ``6G Task Force'', and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 2449 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Future Uses of Technology Upholding Reliable and Enhanced Networks Act'' or the ``FUTURE Networks Act''. SEC. 2. 6G TASK FORCE. (a) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commission shall establish a task force to be known as the ``6G Task Force''.”
“Mr. Speaker, I commend Representative Houchin and Representative Kelly on this bipartisan bill. It is necessary that we pass this. In closing, I encourage a ``yes'' vote, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2399. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Indiana (Mrs. Houchin), an outstanding member of the Energy and Commerce Committee.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2399, the Rural Broadband Protection Act led by my good friend, Representative Houchin. The Federal Communications Commission's Universal Service Fund provides funding for broadband networks in our rural communities. The Rural Broadband Protection Act requires the FCC to establish a process for upfront vetting of providers seeking USF funds. It also directs the FCC to set penalties for providers that do not meet their commitments. This will ensure that USF recipients deliver on their promise to serve our rural communities. I thank Representative Houchin for leading this particular bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on this particular bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida? There was no objection.”