The vote for Biden nominee Anna Gomez gives Democrat commissioners on the FCC a majority. Stalled issues on net neutrality and TCPA reform could move forward with the FCC at capacity.
09/14/2023 11:45 A.M.
1 minute read
The Federal Communications Commission is back to five commissioners this month with the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Anna Gomez by a 55-43 vote.
Gomez was nominated after President Joe Biden’s previous selection Gigi Sohn withdrew herself from consideration by the Senate. Republicans and some Democrats opposed her nomination during a lengthy consideration process, CNBC reports.
“Ms. Gomez’s confirmation will fill the fifth and final spot on the FCC, so they can do the crucial work of expanding access to high-speed internet, administering programs for affordable internet access, and protecting consumers from junk fees, and much more,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate floor before the vote on her nomination, according to The Hill.
The FCC has been focused on stopping illegal robocalls and texts, call blocking notification requirements for voice service providers, revoking consent for calls and texts and other issues impacting communications in the accounts receivable management industry.
A full FCC with a Democrat majority could also mean advancement of their efforts to reform the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.
The Senate Commerce Committee will hold a hearing this month on robocalls, ramping up the discussion again with Congress back in session after the August recess.
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