Audio Video News

In a rare display of functionality, the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the Ray Baum Act. Named after the former staff director of the Energy and Commerce Committee who died recently, the bill reauthorizes the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), among other things.

Also known as the “Repack Airwaves Yielding Better Access for Users of Modern Services Act,” the bill provides crucial funding that will enable the FCC to find new homes for full-power, low-power, and translator TV stations displaced by the recent spectrum auction after current funds for that purpose are exhausted.

The bill also promotes 5G wireless, expands broadband for rural areas, tribal lands, and veterans, and accomplishes a slew of other helpful things — including reauthorizing the FCC itself for the first time in 28 years.

Senate approval is expected.