Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4224

Introduced
6/20/23  
Refer
6/20/23  

Caption

To authorize the Federal Communications Commission to enforce its own forfeiture penalties with respect to violations of restrictions on the use of telephone equipment.

Impact

The enactment of HB4224 would enhance the FCC's authority, giving it the ability to enforce penalties directly, which could lead to quicker resolution of infractions regarding telephone equipment use. This measure is particularly focused on violations that result in penalties over $25 million, indicating a priority for serious infractions that can have substantial impacts on consumers and businesses. The potential for the FCC to directly initiate legal action may deter future violations by providing a faster route to accountability.

Summary

House Bill 4224 seeks to strengthen the enforcement capabilities of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding violations of telephone equipment regulations. Specifically, the bill allows the FCC to pursue its own forfeiture penalties when violations of Section 227 of the Communications Act are not acted upon by the Attorney General within a specified timeframe. This change aims to expedite the enforcement process and ensure that penalties are addressed promptly, particularly for significant violations involving larger forfeiture amounts.

Contention

While the bill may streamline enforcement, it raises questions about the balance of power between federal agencies and the Department of Justice. Critics may argue that allowing the FCC to take such actions independently could lead to discrepancies in how penalties are assessed and enforced. Additionally, stakeholders may be concerned about the implications for due process, particularly for businesses that might face swift penalties without the Attorney General's oversight. As discussions continue, the bill may face scrutiny regarding its broader implications for regulatory autonomy and cooperative governance.

Companion Bills

US SB2095

Same As FCC Legal Enforcement Act

Previously Filed As

US SB2095

FCC Legal Enforcement Act

US SB686

RESTRICT Act Restricting the Emergence of Security Threats that Risk Information and Communications Technology Act

US SB1025

FCC Legal Enforcement Act

US HB4141

To provide that certain communications projects are not subject to requirements to prepare certain environmental or historical preservation reviews, and for other purposes.

US HB4858

Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act of 2023

US HR631

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives to advance the country's national spectrum policy amidst the 29th anniversary of the Federal Communications Commission's first spectrum auction that commenced on July 25, 1994.

US HB2891

SAFE Banking Act of 2023 Secure And Fair Enforcement Banking Act of 2023

US HB140

Protecting Speech from Government Interference Act This bill generally prohibits federal employees from censoring the speech of others while acting in an official capacity. Specifically, the bill prohibits employees of executive agencies or who are otherwise in the competitive service from (1) using their official authority to influence or advocate for a third party, including a private entity, to censor speech; (2) censoring the speech of any person who has a pending regulatory application with, or is the subject of or a participant in an active enforcement action by, the employee's office; or (3) engaging in censorship while on duty, wearing a uniform, or using official government property. Certain presidential appointees may not censor speech at any time, including outside normal duty hours. Employees are subject to disciplinary action, civil penalties, or both for violations. The bill defines censor or censorship to include ordering or advocating for the removal of lawful speech, the addition of disclaimers, or the restriction of access with respect to any platform (e.g., social media).

US HB4370

PREVAIL Act Promoting and Respecting Economically Vital American Innovation Leadership Act

US HB355

Back the Blue Act of 2023 This bill establishes new criminal offenses for killing, assaulting, and fleeing to avoid prosecution for killing a judge, law enforcement officer, or public safety officer. Additionally, the bill expands the list of statutory aggravating factors in death penalty determinations to also include the killing or attempted killing of a law enforcement officer, judge, prosecutor, or firefighter or other first responder; broadens the authority of federal law enforcement officers to carry firearms; and limits federal court review of challenges to state court convictions for killing a public safety officer or judge. Finally, it directs the Department of Justice to make grants to law enforcement agencies and nongovernmental organizations to promote trust and improve relations between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.