WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives on Monday passed H.R. 1765, the Promoting United States Wireless Leadership Act, by a voice vote. The bipartisan legislation is aimed at strengthening U.S. leadership in global wireless communications standards and boosting participation by American companies in shaping the future of 5G and beyond.
The bill was introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ), Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI), and Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY). It directs the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to encourage participation by trusted companies and stakeholders in international standards-setting bodies and to offer them technical assistance.
“As the global competition for 5G and wireless technology continues, the United States must lead — not follow,” said Rep. Kean. “This bipartisan bill ensures that it is American innovation, rather than that of our adversaries abroad, which sets the standard for the future of wireless communications.”
Rep. Dingell emphasized the need to “lower barriers to entry for U.S. companies and promote American competitiveness,” particularly as the U.S. competes with China on emerging technologies.
Congressman Walberg and Congresswoman Clarke, both co-chairs of the 5G and Beyond Caucus, underscored the importance of securing future networks with American values and interests in mind, while supporting international cooperation to ensure continued innovation.
The bill is designed to bolster the U.S.’s presence in global technology governance, particularly in standards bodies that shape the infrastructure and rules for next-generation wireless technologies. It aligns with broader efforts to ensure that international norms reflect democratic values and protect against undue influence from foreign adversaries.
Rep. Kean serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, where he focuses on broadband, telecom policy, and emerging technologies.
