To direct the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to publish data from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, and for other purposes.
Impact
The legislation aims to enhance accessibility and inclusivity by ensuring that data is made readily available to the public in a human-readable format and through bulk download options. This measure not only promotes transparency but also holds the program accountable for its commitments to diversity and inclusion. As all amounts disbursed under the program are utilized, the data will provide insights into the demographics of recipients and their workforces, potentially influencing future funding and policy decisions.
Summary
House Bill 3362 mandates that the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information publish data related to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. This legislation seeks to improve transparency concerning the demographics of grant recipients and the workforce employed in activities financed through the program. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of diversity by collecting data on contracts awarded to minority and women's business enterprises, which is critical to foster equitable opportunities in the broadband sector.
Contention
A notable point of contention regarding HB3362 may arise around the balance between accountability and privacy, as stakeholders may debate the extent to which demographic data should be disclosed. Critics might argue that revealing too much information regarding business enterprises could lead to undue bias or discrimination. In contrast, proponents would assert that such measures are essential for fostering an equitable economic environment and ensuring that all businesses have fair access to opportunities within the broadband infrastructure landscape.
To direct the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to submit a report on the digital divide and to update the Indicators of Broadband Need mapping application, and for other purposes.
A bill to require the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to carry out a grant and revolving loan program to provide funding for projects to increase the resiliency and energy efficiency of communications networks, and for other purposes.
To direct the Secretary of Labor to ensure that the database relating to investigations under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 is language accessible, and for other purposes.