Summary: Broadband Opportunity and Affordability Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to implement a two-year pilot program to expand the Lifeline program to reduce the cost of broadband service for low-income consumers.

affordability act amends communications act require federal_communications_commission fcc implement year pilot program expand lifeline program reduce cost broadband service low income consumers


Summary: (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the Senate on June 22, 2010. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) public access to accurate information is imperative for promoting government accountability and the protection of human rights; (2) Radio Free Asia (RFA) provides a vital voice to people in Asia; (3) some of the governments in Asia spend millions of dollars each year to jam RFA; and (4) Congress should provide additional and permanent funding for RFA. Amends the United States International Broadcasting Act of 1994 to make permanent the authority of the Broadcasting Board of Governors to make grants to operate RFA.

measure amended reported senate june summary version repeated expresses sense senate public access accurate information promoting government accountability protection human rights radio free asia rfa provides vital voice people asia governments asia spend dollars year rfa congress provide additional permanent funding rfa amends united_states_international_broadcasting_act permanent authority broadcasting_board_of_governors grants operate rfa


Summary: Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 - Title I: Communications Access - (Sec. 102) Amends the Communications Act of 1934 (the Act) to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to require that customer premises equipment provide internal means for effective use with hearing aids that are designed to be compatible with telephones which meet established technical standards for hearing aid compatibility. Describes "customer premises equipment" as: (1) all essential telephones (coin-operated telephones, telephones provided for emergency use, and other telephones frequently needed for use by persons using such hearing aids); (2) all U.S telephones (other than for export) manufactured more than one year after the date of enactment of the Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988 or imported for use in the United States more than one year after such date; and (3) all customer premises equipment used with advanced communications services that is designed to provide two-way voice communication via a built-in speaker intended to be held to the ear in a manner functionally equivalent to a telephone. (Sec. 103) Defines the term "telecommunications relay services" to mean telephone transmission services that provide the ability for an individual who is deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or who has a speech disability to engage in communication by wire or radio with one or more individuals, in a manner that is functionally equivalent to the ability of a hearing individual who does not have a speech disability to communicate using voice communication services by wire or radio. Requires, within one year after the date of enactment of this Act, each interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service provider and each provider of non-interconnected VoIP service to participate in and contribute to the Telecommunications Relay Services Fund. (Sec. 104) Requires, with respect to equipment manufactured after the effective date of the regulations required under this section: (1) a manufacturer of equipment used for advanced communications services, including end user equipment, network equipment, and software, to ensure that the equipment and software that such manufacturer offers for sale or otherwise distributes in interstate commerce will be accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, unless such requirements are not achievable; and (2) a provider of advanced communications services to ensure that such services offered by such provider in or affecting interstate commerce are accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, unless such requirements of this subsection are not achievable. Requires, whenever the preceding requirements are not achievable, a manufacturer or provider to ensure that its equipment or service is compatible with existing peripheral devices or specialized customer premises equipment commonly used by individuals with disabilities to achieve access, unless such requirement is not achievable. Requires, within one year after the enactment of this Act, the FCC to promulgate specified implementing regulations. Defines the term "achievable" to mean with reasonable effort or expense, as determined by the FCC and requires, in determining whether the requirements are achievable, the FCC to consider specified factors. Authorizes the FCC to waive the requirements of this section for: (1) any feature or function of equipment used to provide or access advanced communications services, or for any class of such equipment, for any provider of advanced communications services, or for any class of such services, that is capable of accessing an advanced communications service and is designed for multiple purposes, but is designed primarily for purposes other than using advanced communications services; or (2) small entities. Makes the requirements of this section inapplicable to customized equipment or services that are not offered directly to the public, or to such classes of users as to be effectively available directly to the public, regardless of the facilities used. Prohibits construing this section so as to require a manufacturer of equipment used for advanced communications or a provider of advanced communications services to make every feature and function of every device or service accessible for every disability. Requires, within one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the FCC to establish regulations that facilitate the filing of formal and informal complaints that allege a violation of the Act concerning access by persons with disabilities or other provisions of this section, establish procedures for FCC enforcement actions with respect to such violations, and implement specified recordkeeping obligations for manufacturers and providers. Requires the FCC to report to Congress every two years concerning compliance, accessibility barriers, the number and nature of complaints, and an assessment of the requirements of this section on the development and deployment of new communications technologies. Requires the Comptroller General (CG) to report on the FCC's compliance with the deadlines of this section, the appropriateness of the FCC's enforcement actions, and whether, and to what extent (if any), the requirements of this section have an effect on the development and deployment of new communications technologies. Requires the FCC to establish a clearinghouse of information on the availability of accessible products and services and accessibility solutions required for persons with disabilities under this section. Requires the FCC, upon the establishment of the clearinghouse, to conduct an informational and educational program designed to inform the public about the availability of the clearinghouse and the protections and remedies available under this section. Requires that when a manufacturer of a telephone used with public mobile services includes an Internet browser in such telephone or when the provider of mobile service arranges for the inclusion of a browser in telephones to sell to customers, the manufacturer or provider must ensure that the functions of the included browser (including the ability to launch the browser) are accessible to and usable by individuals who are blind or have a visual impairment, unless doing so is not achievable, subject to exception. Makes the provisions of the preceding sentence effective three years following the enactment of this Act. Subjects a manufacturer or service provider determined by the FCC to have violated any of this section's requirements, to a forfeiture penalty of not more than $100,000 for each violation or each day of a continuing violation, except that the amount assessed for any continuing violation shall not exceed a total of $1 million for any single act or failure to act. (Sec. 105) Requires the FCC, within six months after the date of enactment of this Act, to establish rules that define as eligible for relay service support those programs that are FCC approved for the distribution of specialized customer premises equipment designed to make telecommunications service, Internet access service, and advanced communications, including interexchange services and advanced telecommunications and information services, accessible by individuals who are deaf-blind. Authorizes the FCC to provide up to $10 million support annually from its interstate relay fund. (Sec. 106) Requires the FCC to establish the Emergency Access Advisory Committee for the purpose of achieving equal access to emergency services by individuals with disabilities, as a part of the migration to a national Internet protocol-enabled emergency network. Requires the Committee to conduct a national survey of individuals with disabilities to determine the most effective and efficient technologies and methods by which to enable access to emergency services by individuals with disabilities and to develop and submit to the FCC recommendations to implement such technologies and methods. Title II: Video Programming - (Sec. 201) Requires the FCC to establish the Video Programming and Emergency Access Advisory Committee to: (1) recommend a schedule of deadlines for the provision of closed captioning service; (2) identify the performance requirement for protocols, technical capabilities, and technical procedures needed to permit content providers, content distributors, Internet service providers, software developers, and device manufacturers to reliably encode, transport, receive, and render closed captions of video programming, except for consumer generated media, delivered using Internet protocol; (3) identify additional protocols, technical capabilities, and technical procedures beyond those available as of the date of enactment of the this Act of for the delivery of closed captions of video programming, except for consumer generated media, delivered using Internet protocol that are necessary to meet such performance objectives; (4) recommend technical standards to address the performance objectives; and (5) recommend any regulations that may be necessary to ensure compatibility between video programming, except for consumer generated media, delivered using Internet protocol and devices capable of receiving and displaying such programming in order to facilitate access to closed captions. Sets forth reporting requirements. (Sec. 202) Requires the FCC, one year after the date of enactment of this Act, to reinstate (modified, as specified) the video description regulations contained in the Implementation of Video Description of Video Programming Report and Order. Requires the FCC to commence specified inquiries after the phase-in of the reinstated regulations. Prohibits the FCC from issuing additional regulations unless it determines, at least two years after completing the inquiries, that the need for and benefits of providing video description for video programming, insofar as such programming is transmitted for display on television, are greater than the technical and economic costs of providing such additional programming. Sets a schedule for the phase-in of video description regulations. Requires the FCC to submit a specified report assessing video programming. Defines: (1) "video description" as the insertion of audio narrated descriptions of a television program's key visual elements into natural pauses between the program's dialogue; and (2) "video programming" as programming by, or generally considered comparable to programming provided by a television broadcast station, but not including consumer-generated media. Requires the FCC to identify methods to convey accessible emergency information to blind or visually impaired individuals and promulgate regulations that require video programming providers and video programming distributors and program owners to convey such emergency information in a manner accessible to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Sets a deadline for the FCC to revise regulations requiring the provision of closed captioning on video programming delivered using Internet protocol. (Sec. 203) Revises provisions concerning closed caption decoder circuitry and video description capability. Requires, generally, that, if technically feasible, apparatus designed to receive or play back video programming transmitted simultaneously with sound, if such apparatus is manufactured in the United States or imported for use in the United States and uses a picture screen of any size: (1) be equipped with built-in closed caption decoder circuitry or capability designed to display closed-captioned video programming; (2) have the capability to decode and make available the transmission and delivery of video description services as required by the reinstated regulations; and (3) have the capability to decode and make available emergency information in a manner that is accessible to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Sets forth provisions concerning picture screens less than 13 inches and waivers and exemptions form the preceding requirements. Requires the FCC to require that: (1) if achievable, apparatus designed to record video programming transmitted simultaneously with sound, if such apparatus is manufactured in the United States or imported for use in the United States, enable the rendering or the pass through of closed captions, video description signals, and emergency information such that viewers are able to activate and de-activate the closed captions and video description as the video programming is played back on a picture screen of any size; and (2) interconnection mechanisms and standards for digital video source devices are available to carry from the source device to the consumer equipment the information necessary to permit or render the display of closed captions and to make encoded video description and emergency information audible. (Sec. 204) Requires the FCC to require that: (1) if achievable, digital apparatus designed to receive or play back video programming transmitted in digital format simultaneously with sound, including apparatus designed to receive or display video programming transmitted in digital format using Internet protocol, be designed, developed, and fabricated so that control of appropriate built-in apparatus functions are accessible to and usable by individuals who are blind or visually impaired, except that the Commission may not specify the technical standards, protocols, procedures, and other technical requirements for meeting this requirement; (2) if on-screen text menus or other visual indicators built in to the digital apparatus are used to access the functions of the apparatus described in clause (1), such functions shall be accompanied by audio output that is either integrated or peripheral to the apparatus, so that such menus or indicators are accessible to and usable by individuals who are blind or visually impaired in real-time; (3) for such apparatus equipped with the functions described in clauses (1) and (2), built in access to those closed captioning and video description features through a mechanism be reasonably comparable to a button, key, or icon designated by activating the closed captioning or accessibility features; and (4) in applying this section the term "apparatus" does not include a navigation device. (Sec. 205) Requires the FCC to require that: (1) if achievable, the on-screen text menus and guides provided by navigation devices for the display or selection of multichannel video programming are audibly accessible in real-time upon request by individuals who are blind or visually impaired, except that the FCC may not specify the technical standards, protocols, procedures, and other technical requirements for meeting this requirement; and (2) for navigation devices with built-in closed captioning capability, access to that capability through a mechanism is reasonably comparable to a button, key, or icon designated for activating the closed captioning, or accessibility features.

video accessibility act title communications access sec amends communications act act require federal_communications_commission fcc require customer premises equipment provide internal means effective use hearing aids designed compatible telephones meet established technical standards hearing aid compatibility describes customer premises equipment essential telephones coin operated telephones telephones provided emergency use telephones frequently needed use persons hearing aids telephones export manufactured year date enactment imported use united_states year date customer premises equipment advanced communications services designed provide way voice communication built speaker intended held manner functionally equivalent telephone sec defines term telecommunications relay services mean telephone transmission services provide ability individual deaf hard hearing deaf blind speech disability engage communication wire radio individuals manner functionally equivalent ability hearing individual speech disability communicate voice communication services wire radio requires year date enactment act interconnected voice internet protocol voip service provider provider non interconnected voip service participate contribute sec requires respect equipment manufactured effective date regulations required section manufacturer equipment advanced communications services including end user equipment network equipment software ensure equipment software manufacturer offers sale distributes interstate commerce accessible usable individuals disabilities requirements achievable provider advanced communications services ensure services offered provider affecting interstate commerce accessible usable individuals disabilities requirements subsection achievable requires preceding requirements achievable manufacturer provider ensure equipment service compatible existing peripheral devices specialized customer premises equipment commonly individuals disabilities achieve access requirement achievable requires year enactment act fcc promulgate specified implementing regulations defines term achievable mean reasonable effort expense determined fcc requires determining requirements achievable fcc consider specified factors authorizes fcc waive requirements section feature function equipment provide access advanced communications services class equipment provider advanced communications services class services capable accessing advanced communications service designed multiple purposes designed primarily purposes advanced communications services small entities makes requirements section inapplicable customized equipment services offered directly public classes users effectively available directly public regardless facilities prohibits construing section require manufacturer equipment advanced communications provider advanced communications services feature function device service accessible disability requires year date enactment act fcc establish regulations facilitate filing formal informal complaints allege violation act concerning access persons disabilities provisions section establish procedures fcc enforcement actions respect violations implement specified recordkeeping obligations manufacturers providers requires fcc report congress years concerning compliance accessibility barriers number nature complaints assessment requirements section development deployment new communications technologies requires comptroller general report fcc compliance deadlines section appropriateness fcc enforcement actions extent requirements section effect development deployment new communications technologies requires fcc establish clearinghouse information availability accessible products services accessibility solutions required persons disabilities section requires fcc establishment clearinghouse conduct informational educational program designed inform public availability clearinghouse protections remedies available section requires manufacturer telephone public mobile services includes internet telephone provider mobile service arranges inclusion telephones sell customers manufacturer provider ensure functions included including ability launch accessible usable individuals blind visual impairment achievable subject exception makes provisions preceding sentence effective years following enactment act subjects manufacturer service provider determined fcc violated section requirements forfeiture penalty violation day continuing violation assessed continuing violation shall exceed total million single act failure act sec requires fcc months date enactment act establish rules define eligible relay service support programs fcc approved distribution specialized customer premises equipment designed telecommunications service internet access service advanced communications including interexchange services advanced telecommunications information services accessible individuals deaf blind authorizes fcc provide million support annually interstate relay fund sec requires fcc establish purpose achieving equal access emergency services individuals disabilities migration national internet protocol enabled emergency network requires committee conduct national survey individuals disabilities determine effective efficient technologies methods enable access emergency services individuals disabilities develop submit fcc recommendations implement technologies methods title video programming sec requires fcc establish recommend schedule deadlines provision closed captioning service identify performance requirement protocols technical capabilities technical procedures needed permit content providers content distributors internet service providers software developers device manufacturers reliably transport receive render closed video programming consumer generated media delivered internet protocol identify additional protocols technical capabilities technical procedures available date enactment act delivery closed video programming consumer generated media delivered internet protocol necessary meet performance objectives recommend technical standards address performance objectives recommend regulations necessary ensure compatibility video programming consumer generated media delivered internet protocol devices capable receiving displaying programming order facilitate access closed sets forth reporting requirements sec requires fcc year date enactment act reinstate modified specified video description regulations contained order requires fcc commence specified inquiries phase reinstated regulations prohibits fcc issuing additional regulations determines years completing inquiries need benefits providing video description video programming insofar programming transmitted display television greater technical economic costs providing additional programming sets schedule phase video description regulations requires fcc submit specified report assessing video programming defines video description audio descriptions television program key visual elements natural program dialogue video programming programming generally considered comparable programming provided television broadcast station including consumer generated media requires fcc identify methods convey accessible emergency information blind visually impaired individuals promulgate regulations require video programming providers video programming distributors program owners convey emergency information manner accessible individuals blind visually impaired sets deadline fcc revise regulations requiring provision closed captioning video programming delivered internet protocol sec revises provisions concerning closed video description capability requires generally technically feasible apparatus designed receive play video programming transmitted simultaneously sound apparatus manufactured united_states imported use united_states uses picture screen size equipped built closed capability designed display closed video programming capability available transmission delivery video description services required reinstated regulations capability available emergency information manner accessible individuals blind visually impaired sets forth provisions concerning picture inches waivers exemptions form preceding requirements requires fcc require achievable apparatus designed record video programming transmitted simultaneously sound apparatus manufactured united_states imported use united_states enable rendering pass closed video description signals emergency information able activate activate closed video description video programming played picture screen size interconnection mechanisms standards digital video source devices available carry source device consumer equipment information necessary permit render display closed video description emergency information sec requires fcc require achievable digital apparatus designed receive play video programming transmitted digital format simultaneously sound including apparatus designed receive display video programming transmitted digital format internet protocol designed developed fabricated control appropriate built apparatus functions accessible usable individuals blind visually impaired commission specify technical standards protocols procedures technical requirements meeting requirement screen text menus visual indicators built digital apparatus access functions apparatus described clause functions shall accompanied audio output integrated peripheral apparatus menus indicators accessible usable individuals blind visually impaired real time apparatus equipped functions described clauses built access closed captioning video description features mechanism reasonably comparable button key designated closed captioning accessibility features applying section term apparatus include navigation device sec requires fcc require achievable screen text menus guides provided navigation devices display selection multichannel video programming accessible real time request individuals blind visually impaired fcc specify technical standards protocols procedures technical requirements meeting requirement navigation devices built closed captioning capability access capability mechanism reasonably comparable button key designated closed captioning accessibility features


Summary: Spectrum Relocation Improvement Act of 2010 - (Sec. 2) Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to post on its website detailed transition plans from each federal entity that is eligible for payments from the Spectrum Relocation Fund (Fund) for costs related to the reallocation of frequencies from federal to nonfederal use. Requires each federal entity's transition plan to provide certain public information about its spectrum relocation requirements including its: (1) current spectrum use; (2) geographic location of facilities or systems; (3) frequency bands used; (4) steps to be taken to relocate current spectrum uses from eligible frequencies; (5) necessary NTIA interactions; (6) authorized commercial licensee negotiator; (7) plans and timelines for equipment procurement, field-testing, and personnel hiring; and (8) relocation process risk factors. Conditions a federal entity's eligibility to receive payment for relocations costs on, among other factors, an: (1) Office of Management and Budget (OMB) finding that such a federal entity complies with Fund requirements and this Act's requirements; and (2) evaluation by a three-member technical panel, of which the OMB Director, NTIA Administrator, and Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) each appoint one member. Directs the FCC and the NTIA to jointly establish any necessary applicable conditions to define the term "shared access," including methods of sharing spectrum resources and coordination between federal and nonfederal entities (commercial licensees, and/or sharing network infrastructure or other resources). Requires the federal entities, to the fullest extent possible, to provide for sharing and coordination of eligible frequencies with commercial licensees. Requires federal entities to complete spectrum relocation within one year of receiving relocation payments. Sets forth a process for a federal entity to complete such relocation according to an approved alternative time period. Establishes a dispute resolution process for a federal entity or affected commercial licensee to seek resolution of disputes over the execution, timing, or cost of a transition plan. Requires the dispute resolution board to be assisted by the technical panel. Authorizes appeals from dispute resolution board decisions to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. (Sec. 3) Requires the Comptroller General to submit to Congress a study regarding the spectrum management capabilities of the NTIA and other federal agencies, including an analysis of expected funding needs and coordination of existing federal resources, by agency, to prepare for any future relocation or sharing of currently utilized spectrum.

spectrum relocation improvement act sec amends national_telecommunications_and_information_administration_organization_act require national_telecommunications_and_information_administration ntia post website detailed transition plans federal entity eligible payments costs related reallocation frequencies federal nonfederal use requires federal entity transition plan provide certain public information spectrum relocation requirements including current spectrum use geographic location facilities systems frequency bands steps taken relocate current spectrum uses eligible frequencies necessary ntia interactions authorized commercial licensee plans timelines equipment procurement field testing personnel hiring relocation process risk factors conditions federal entity eligibility receive payment relocations costs factors office_of_management_and_budget omb finding federal entity complies fund requirements act requirements evaluation member technical panel omb director chairman federal_communications_commission fcc appoint member directs fcc ntia jointly establish necessary applicable conditions define term shared access including methods sharing spectrum resources coordination federal nonfederal entities commercial licensees sharing network infrastructure resources requires federal entities fullest extent possible provide sharing coordination eligible frequencies commercial licensees requires federal entities complete spectrum relocation year receiving relocation payments sets forth process federal entity complete relocation according approved alternative time period establishes dispute resolution process federal entity affected commercial licensee seek resolution disputes execution timing cost transition plan requires dispute resolution board assisted technical panel authorizes appeals dispute resolution board decisions sec requires comptroller general submit congress study spectrum management capabilities ntia federal agencies including analysis expected funding needs coordination existing federal resources agency prepare future relocation sharing currently utilized spectrum


Summary: Spectrum Measurement and Policy Reform Act - Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to conduct a study of occupancy on the electromagnetic spectrum (between, at least, 100 megahertz and 10 gigahertz) based on the extent of the use of such spectrum, including the amount and percentage of spectrum used in the band and the duration and percentage of time such spectrum is in use. Directs the FCC and the Administration to determine appropriate benchmarks for assessing: (1) the utilization of each electromagnetic spectrum band; and (2) the availability of services operating in other bands capable of offering substitutable services. Directs the FCC and the Administration to identify specified close proximity electromagnetic spectrum most feasible for: (1) spectrum sharing opportunities for commercial and government users; (2) spectrum reuse opportunities for commercial and government users; (3) temporary or dynamic short-term assignment and use; and (4) spectrum layering opportunities for commercial and government users. Directs the FCC and the Administration to: (1) implement pilot programs to promote spectrum sharing and reuse activities for such identified spectrum bands; (2) perform a cost-benefit analysis on electromagnetic spectrum relocation opportunities to move certain federal users and services currently operating in a specific band of the spectrum to more efficient spectrum bands; and (3) establish the Spectrum Advisory Committee. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) withhold or refuse to assign frequencies for mobile radio service or other radio service; (2) assess from each federal user an annual fee for the assigned spectrum that is based on the spectrum's fair market commercial value; and (3) develop an auction revenue sharing plan where, in exchange for relinquishing spectrum usage rights, certain federal users currently operating in an assigned spectrum band would receive as an auction incentive award a percentage of the auction revenue from any resulting auction. Amends the the Communications Act of 1934 to: (1) provide that, if consistent with the public interest for a licensee to relinquish some or all of its spectrum usage rights in order to permit the assignment of new initial licenses or the allocation of spectrum for unlicensed use, the proceeds from the use of a competitive bidding system may be shared with any licensee who agreed to relinquish such usage rights; and (2) authorize the FCC to assess from each spectrum licensee an annual fee based on the fair market commercial value of that spectrum and the public interest of the service the spectrum is being used for. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to provide for the reversion of unused Spectrum Relocation Fund amounts to the Treasury after 20 years (current law provides for reversion after 8 years).

spectrum measurement policy reform act directs federal_communications_commission fcc national_telecommunications_and_information_administration conduct study occupancy electromagnetic spectrum megahertz gigahertz based extent use spectrum including percentage spectrum band duration percentage time spectrum use directs fcc administration determine appropriate benchmarks assessing utilization electromagnetic spectrum band availability services operating bands capable offering services directs fcc administration identify specified close proximity electromagnetic spectrum feasible spectrum sharing opportunities commercial government users spectrum reuse opportunities commercial government users temporary dynamic short term assignment use spectrum opportunities commercial government users directs fcc administration implement pilot programs promote spectrum sharing reuse activities identified spectrum bands perform cost benefit analysis electromagnetic spectrum relocation opportunities certain federal users services currently operating specific band spectrum efficient spectrum bands establish amends national_telecommunications_and_information_administration_organization_act authorize secretary commerce withhold refuse assign frequencies mobile radio service radio service assess federal user annual fee assigned spectrum based spectrum fair market commercial value develop auction revenue sharing plan exchange relinquishing spectrum usage rights certain federal users currently operating assigned spectrum band receive auction incentive award percentage auction revenue resulting auction amends communications act provide consistent public interest licensee relinquish spectrum usage rights order permit assignment new initial licenses allocation spectrum unlicensed use proceeds use competitive bidding system shared licensee agreed relinquish usage rights authorize fcc assess spectrum licensee annual fee based fair market commercial value spectrum public interest service spectrum amends national_telecommunications_and_information_administration_organization_act provide reversion unused spectrum_relocation_fund amounts treasury years current law provides reversion years


Summary: Next Generation Public Safety Device Act of 2010 - Directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to conduct a competition to award grants to eligible entities for the development of nonstationary radio over Internet protocol (RoIP) devices that support mission-critical broadband voice and data communications of public safety personnel. Establishes a working group to provide the Assistant Secretary with advice and technical assistance in conducting the competition. Requires the Assistant Secretary to establish: (1) requirements for the RoIP devices developed, in whole or in part, using a grant awarded under this Act; and (2) a three-stage process under which to award such grants to eligible entities. Allows the award of a grant in a stage only to an eligible entity that: (1) submits a bid meeting the specifications developed for that stage; and (2) provides an assurance that the grant funds will be used to develop an RoIP device in accordance with the specifications included in that bid. Sets forth additional factors for the Assistant Secretary to consider when making a grant. Requires the Comptroller General to conduct an audit of such competition. Directs the FCC to establish a voluntary labeling program for the identification of nonstationary RoIP devices that meet such criteria as considered appropriate to support mission-critical broadband voice and data communications of public safety personnel.

directs assistant secretary commerce_for_communications_and_information conduct competition award grants eligible entities development radio internet protocol devices support mission critical broadband voice data communications public safety personnel establishes working group provide assistant secretary advice technical assistance conducting competition requires assistant secretary establish requirements devices developed grant awarded act stage process award grants eligible entities allows award grant stage eligible entity submits bid meeting specifications developed stage provides assurance grant funds develop device accordance specifications included bid sets forth additional factors assistant secretary consider making grant requires comptroller general conduct audit competition directs fcc establish voluntary labeling program identification devices meet criteria considered appropriate support mission critical broadband voice data communications public safety personnel


Summary: Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act - Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to: (1) ensure the deployment of a nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network in the 700 MHz band which is deployed in both rural and urban areas; (2) reallocate and integrate the 700 MHz D block spectrum for use by public safety entities; (3) permit flexible use of the narrowband spectrum; (4) ensure that the nationwide public safety broadband network is fully interoperable on a nationwide basis; and (5) establish a 10-year public safety advisory board. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to increase the electromagnetic spectrum allocation for public safety services by 10 megahertz. Permits the FCC, if consistent with the public interest for a licensee to relinquish voluntarily some or all of its licensed spectrum usage rights in order to permit the assignment of new initial licenses, to disburse to that licensee portions of the auction proceeds related to the new use that are attributable to the licensee's relinquished spectrum usage. Extends FCC auction authority until September 30, 2020. Authorizes secondary use of the public safety spectrum, subject to specified limitations and conditions. Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the Public Safety Interoperable Broadband Network Construction Fund; and (2) the Public Safety Interoperable Broadband Network Maintenance and Operation Fund. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to establish a grant program to assist public safety entities establish a nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network in the 700 MHz band.

public safety spectrum wireless innovation act directs federal_communications_commission fcc ensure deployment nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network mhz band deployed rural urban areas reallocate integrate mhz block spectrum use public safety entities permit flexible use narrowband spectrum ensure nationwide public safety broadband network fully interoperable nationwide basis establish year public safety advisory board amends communications act increase electromagnetic spectrum allocation public safety services megahertz permits fcc consistent public interest licensee relinquish voluntarily licensed spectrum usage rights order permit assignment new initial licenses disburse licensee portions auction proceeds related new use attributable licensee relinquished spectrum usage extends fcc auction authority september authorizes secondary use public safety spectrum subject specified limitations conditions establishes treasury directs assistant secretary commerce_for_communications_and_information establish grant program assist public safety entities establish nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network mhz band


Summary: Amends the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (S. 3304), as engrossed by the Senate, to make certain technical corrections to it as well as to amendments it makes to the Communications Act of 1934. Requires the Video Programming and Emergency Access Advisory Committee, in its report to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to: (1) identify additional protocols for the delivery of emergency information delivered by digital broadcast television (as well as by Internet protocol); and (2) recommend any regulations that may be necessary to ensure compatibility between video programming delivered using digital broadcast television (as well as using Internet protocol). Amends the Communications Act of 1934, as amended by the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010, to specify low-income individuals who are deaf-blind with respect to the requirement that the FCC establish rules defining the eligibility for relay service support of those FCC-approved programs for the distribution of specialized customer premises equipment designed to make telecommunications and related services accessible by individuals who are deaf-blind.

amends video accessibility act senate certain technical corrections amendments makes communications act requires report federal_communications_commission fcc identify additional protocols delivery emergency information delivered digital broadcast television internet protocol recommend regulations necessary ensure compatibility video programming delivered digital broadcast television internet protocol amends communications act amended video accessibility act specify low income individuals deaf blind respect requirement fcc establish rules defining eligibility relay service support fcc approved programs distribution specialized customer premises equipment designed telecommunications related services accessible individuals deaf blind


Summary: Notification of Origin of Telecommunications and Internet Consumer Exchanges Act of 2010 or NOTICE Act of 2010 - Requires business entities that initiate or receive certain customer service communications to disclose their physical location if located outside the United States. Directs each such business entity to annually certify to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that it has complied or failed to comply with the disclosure. Treats such a business entity's failure to comply as a regulatory violation under the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTCA) regarding unfair or deceptive acts or practices. Requires FTC enforcement and subjects violators to penalties under the FTCA.

notice act requires business entities initiate receive certain customer service communications disclose physical location located outside united_states directs business entity annually certify federal_trade_commission ftc complied failed comply disclosure treats business entity failure comply regulatory violation federal_trade_commission act ftca unfair deceptive acts practices requires ftc enforcement subjects violators penalties ftca


Summary: Letting Our Communities Access Local Television Act of 2010 or the LOCAL TV Act of 2010 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to seek and consider petitions requesting the expansion of a satellite or cable license to permit secondary transmissions to an adjacent in-state market area in those instances where transmissions to such adjacent market area are not currently allowed.

communities access local television act local act amends communications act require federal_communications_commission fcc seek consider petitions requesting expansion satellite cable license permit secondary transmissions adjacent state market area instances transmissions adjacent market area currently allowed


Summary: Federal Wi-Net Act - Requires the Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA) to: (1) install or retrofit wireless Internet connections in federal buildings; and (2) allow eligible carriers, upon request, to install wireless neutral host systems in all publicly accessible federal buildings. Authorizes the executive agency controlling a federal government building to grant an easement or rights-of-way, for the installation, construction, and maintenance of wireless transmitters and backhaul transmission, to an executive agency, state, or individual applicant. Requires the Administrator to establish a fee for awarding such easement or rights-of-way that is based on fair market prices, subject to certain exceptions. Requires any fees collected to be used by the relevant agency for construction and maintenance of Wi-Fi hotspots and wireless neutral host systems. Directs the Administrator to develop one or more master contracts to govern the placement of wireless transmitters on federal government buildings.

federal net act requires administrator general_services_administration gsa install retrofit wireless internet connections federal buildings allow eligible carriers request install wireless neutral host systems publicly accessible federal buildings authorizes executive agency controlling federal government building grant easement rights way installation construction maintenance wireless transmitters transmission executive agency state individual applicant requires administrator establish fee awarding easement rights way based fair market prices subject certain exceptions requires fees collected relevant agency construction maintenance wireless neutral host systems directs administrator develop master contracts govern placement wireless transmitters federal government buildings


Summary: Prohibits federal funding to organizations incorporated for specified purposes related to: (1) broadcasting, transmitting, and programming over noncommercial educational radio broadcast stations, networks, and systems; (2) cooperating with foreign broadcasting systems and networks in international radio programming and broadcasting; (3) assisting and supporting such noncommercial educational radio broadcasting pursuant to the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967; or (4) acquiring radio programs from such organizations. Requires the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, for FY2011-FY2012, to transfer to a designated Treasury account for use to reduce the public debt an amount equal to the amount allocated from the Public Broadcasting Fund for specified licensees and permittees of public radio stations, public radio programming, and for acquiring or producing certain national programming.

prohibits federal funding organizations incorporated specified purposes related broadcasting transmitting programming noncommercial educational radio broadcast stations networks systems cooperating foreign broadcasting systems networks international radio programming broadcasting assisting supporting noncommercial educational radio broadcasting pursuant acquiring radio programs organizations requires corporation_for_public_broadcasting fy2011 fy2012 transfer designated treasury account use reduce public debt equal allocated specified licensees permittees public radio stations public radio programming acquiring producing certain national programming


Summary: Broadband for First Responders Act of 2011 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to increase the electromagnetic spectrum allocation for public safety services by 10 megahertz and reduce such allocation for commercial use by the same amount. Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to: (1) allocate the paired electromagnetic spectrum bands of 758-763 megahertz and 788-793 megahertz (referred to as D Block) for public safety broadband communications and license such paired bands to public safety; (2) establish rules to permit a public safety broadband licensee to authorize public safety service providers to construct and operate a wireless public safety broadband network in the licensee's spectrum if such authorization would expedite public safety broadband communications; (3) require that any wireless public safety broadband network be fully interoperable, provide for user roaming, be disaster survivable, have the appropriate level of cyber security, and be consistent with the Statewide Interoperable Communications Plans and the National Emergency Communications Plan; (4) establish regulations to authorize the shared use of the public safety broadband spectrum and network infrastructure by entities that are not defined as public safety services; (5) establish regulations to allow use of the public safety broadband spectrum by emergency response providers; and (6) develop a public safety agency statement of requirements that enables nationwide interoperability and roaming across any communications system using public safety broadband spectrum. Specifies organizations that shall be included in the Board of Directors of the Public Safety Broadband Licensee. Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the Public Safety Interoperable Broadband Network Construction Fund, and (2) the Public Safety Interoperable Broadband Network Maintenance and Operation Fund. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) establish a grant program to assist public safety entities to establish a nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network in the 700 megahertz band, and (2) administer a program through which not more than 50% of maintenance and operational expenses associated with the public safety interoperable broadband network may be reimbursed from the Maintenance and Operation Fund. Directs: (1) the Assistant Secretary of Commerce to reallocate for commercial use electromagnetic spectrum at 1755-1780 megahertz, and (2) the FCC, within 18 months after enactment of this Act, to establish rules for pairing electromagnetic spectrum bands at 1755-1780 megahertz and 2155-2180 megahertz, inclusive, and auction the licenses for such paired spectrum. Requires each public safety entity, within 8 years, to migrate from a specified range of radio spectrum to an alternative radio spectrum that is licensed to public safety services in the 700 and 800 megahertz bands. Directs each federal law enforcement agency, within 10 years, to move all noncommercial network communications to spectrum in such bands. Directs the FCC to auction, through an appropriate competitive bidding system, certain paired electromagnetic spectrum bands recovered from public safety entities under a specified FCC migration plan. Extends the FCC's authority to grant a license or permit under applicable competitive bidding provisions to September 30, 2020.

broadband responders act amends communications act increase electromagnetic spectrum allocation public safety services megahertz reduce allocation commercial use directs federal_communications_commission fcc allocate paired electromagnetic spectrum bands megahertz megahertz referred block public safety broadband communications license paired bands public safety establish rules permit public safety broadband licensee authorize public safety service providers construct operate wireless public safety broadband network licensee spectrum authorization expedite public safety broadband communications require wireless public safety broadband network fully interoperable provide user roaming disaster appropriate level cyber security consistent establish regulations authorize shared use public safety broadband spectrum network infrastructure entities defined public safety services establish regulations allow use public safety broadband spectrum emergency response providers develop public safety agency statement requirements enables nationwide interoperability roaming communications system public safety broadband spectrum specifies organizations shall included board_of_directors establishes treasury directs secretary commerce establish grant program assist public safety entities establish nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network megahertz band administer program maintenance operational expenses associated public safety interoperable broadband network reimbursed directs assistant secretary commerce reallocate commercial use electromagnetic spectrum megahertz fcc months enactment act establish rules pairing electromagnetic spectrum bands megahertz megahertz inclusive auction licenses paired spectrum requires public safety entity years specified range radio spectrum alternative radio spectrum licensed public safety services megahertz bands directs federal law enforcement agency years noncommercial network communications spectrum bands directs fcc auction appropriate competitive bidding system certain paired electromagnetic spectrum bands recovered public safety entities specified fcc migration plan extends fcc authority grant license permit applicable competitive bidding provisions september


Summary: Broadcaster Freedom Act of 2011 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from having the authority to require broadcasters to present opposing viewpoints on controversial issues of public importance, commonly referred to as the Fairness Doctrine.

broadcaster freedom act amends communications act prohibit federal_communications_commission fcc having authority require broadcasters present opposing viewpoints controversial issues public importance commonly referred fairness doctrine


Summary: Spectrum Inventory and Auction Act of 2011 - Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to require the Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information at the Department of Commerce and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to: (1) inventory, at least semiannually, each broadband radio spectrum band of frequencies listed in the U.S. Table of Frequency Allocations, including the identity of each federal or non-federal user within each radio service authorized to operate in each band of frequencies, the activities and capabilities (whether space-, air-, or ground-based) supported by transmitters and other radio frequency devices, the total amount of spectrum and geographic coverage areas assigned or licensed to each user, and other specified information; and (2) make the inventory available to the public on an Internet website. Directs the Assistant Secretary and the FCC to submit to Congress a biennial report containing a recommendation of which bands of inventoried frequencies, if any, should be reallocated or made available for shared access. Sets forth exceptions for federal agencies to withhold certain national security information. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that, if the FCC determines that it is consistent with the public interest in spectrum utilization (after a report of the initial inventory is submitted to Congress and made available on the Internet) for a licensee to voluntarily relinquish licensed spectrum usage rights to permit the assignment of new initial licenses or the allocation of spectrum for unlicensed use subject to new service rules, the proceeds from granting such rights to another licensee under an appropriate competitive bidding system must be shared, in a more than de minimis amount that the FCC considers appropriate, with the licensee who voluntarily relinquished such rights. Directs the FCC to establish rules for such voluntary incentive auction revenue sharing. Prohibits the FCC from reclaiming frequencies of any licensees on an involuntary basis for certain licensing purposes. Extends the FCC's authority to grant a license or permit under the applicable competitive bidding provisions to September 30, 2020.

auction act amends national_telecommunications_and_information_administration_organization_act require assistant secretary department_of_commerce federal_communications_commission fcc inventory semiannually broadband radio spectrum band frequencies listed including identity federal non federal user radio service authorized operate band frequencies activities capabilities ground based supported transmitters radio frequency devices total spectrum geographic coverage areas assigned licensed user specified information inventory available public internet website directs assistant secretary fcc submit congress biennial report containing recommendation bands inventoried frequencies reallocated available shared access sets forth exceptions federal agencies withhold certain national security information amends communications act provide fcc determines consistent public interest spectrum utilization report initial inventory submitted congress available internet licensee voluntarily relinquish licensed spectrum usage rights permit assignment new initial licenses allocation spectrum unlicensed use subject new service rules proceeds granting rights licensee appropriate competitive bidding system shared minimis fcc considers appropriate licensee voluntarily relinquished rights directs fcc establish rules voluntary incentive auction revenue sharing prohibits fcc reclaiming frequencies licensees involuntary basis certain licensing purposes extends fcc authority grant license permit applicable competitive bidding provisions september


Summary: Federal Communications Commission Collaboration Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to allow, notwithstanding a specified open meeting provision, three or more Commissioners of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to hold a meeting that is closed to the public to discuss official business if: (1) no agency action is taken; (2) each person present is an FCC Commissioner or employee; (3) for each political party of which any Commissioner is a member, at least one Commissioner who is a member of the respective party is present, and, if any Commissioner has no party affiliation, at least one unaffiliated Commissioner is present; and (4) an attorney from the FCC's Office of General Counsel is present. Requires public disclosure of the meeting, attendees, and matters discussed. Terminates the effectiveness of this Act five years after enactment.

federal_communications_commission collaboration act amends communications act allow notwithstanding specified open meeting provision commissioners federal_communications_commission fcc hold meeting closed public discuss official business agency action taken person present fcc commissioner employee political party commissioner member commissioner member respective party present commissioner party affiliation unaffiliated commissioner present attorney fcc present requires public disclosure meeting attendees matters discussed terminates effectiveness act years enactment


Summary: Prohibits federal funding to organizations incorporated for specified purposes related to: (1) broadcasting, transmitting, and programming over noncommercial educational radio broadcast stations, networks, and systems; (2) cooperating with foreign broadcasting systems and networks in international radio programming and broadcasting; (3) assisting and supporting such noncommercial educational radio broadcasting pursuant to the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967; (4) paying dues to such organizations; or (5) acquiring radio programs by or for the use of a radio broadcast station that is a public broadcast station as defined in the Communications Act of 1934. Revises the Public Broadcasting Fund allocation formula.

prohibits federal funding organizations incorporated specified purposes related broadcasting transmitting programming noncommercial educational radio broadcast stations networks systems cooperating foreign broadcasting systems networks international radio programming broadcasting assisting supporting noncommercial educational radio broadcasting pursuant paying dues organizations acquiring radio programs use radio broadcast station public broadcast station defined communications act revises allocation formula


Summary: Stop Wasting Taxpayer Money on Cuba Broadcasting Act - Repeals: (1) the Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act, and (2) the Television Broadcasting to Cuba Act. (Thus eliminating Voice of America: Radio/Television Marti broadcasts to Cuba.)

stop taxpayer money cuba broadcasting act repeals cuba act cuba act eliminating broadcasts cuba


Summary: (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on September 29, 2011. The summary of that version is repeated here.) (Sec. 1) Requires the Administrator of the Rural Utilities Service or the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to terminate for cause any award (including grants and loans) made under the Broadband Initiatives Program or the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program, respectively, established pursuant to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, if the Administrator or Assistant Secretary determines that cause exists (including insufficient level of performance, wasteful spending, or fraudulent spending) to terminate the award. Directs the Administrator or the Assistant Secretary to: (1) deobligate, upon terminating such an award, an amount equivalent to such award, less allowable costs, to the extent funds with respect to such award are available in the account relating to the respective programs (requires that any additional amount subsequently recovered be deobligated immediately upon receipt); and (2) return to the Treasury's general fund such deobligated amounts and any award returned or disclaimed by a recipient after enactment of this Act. (Sec. 3) Requires the Administrator or the Assistant Secretary, upon receiving information from the Inspector General of the Department of Agriculture (USDA), Inspector General of the Department of Commerce, or the Comptroller General pertaining to material noncompliance with award terms or improper usage of award funds, to: (1) review such information immediately, (2) determine whether cause exists to terminate such award (unless the relevant official recommends that such a determination not be made), and (3) notify Congress of any such determination.

measure amended reported house september summary version repeated sec requires administrator rural_utilities_service assistant secretary commerce_for_communications_and_information terminate cause award including grants loans respectively established pursuant american_recovery_and_reinvestment_act administrator assistant secretary determines cause exists including insufficient level performance wasteful spending fraudulent spending terminate award directs administrator assistant secretary terminating award equivalent award allowable costs extent funds respect award available account relating respective programs requires additional subsequently recovered immediately receipt return treasury general fund amounts award returned recipient enactment act sec requires administrator assistant secretary receiving information usda inspector general department_of_commerce comptroller general pertaining material noncompliance award terms improper usage award funds review information immediately determine cause exists terminate award relevant official recommends determination notify congress determination


Summary: Spectrum Innovation Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that, if the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) determines that it is consistent with the public interest in spectrum utilization for a licensee to voluntarily relinquish licensed spectrum usage rights to permit the assignment of new initial licenses subject to new service rules, the proceeds from granting such rights to another licensee under an appropriate competitive bidding system must be shared (subject to the FCC retaining certain offsets and deposits for specified program qualification and implementation costs), in an amount or percentage that the FCC considers appropriate, with the licensee who voluntarily relinquished such rights. Directs the FCC to establish rules for such voluntary incentive auction revenue sharing. Prohibits the FCC from reclaiming frequencies of broadcast television licensees directly or indirectly on an involuntary basis for certain licensing purposes.

spectrum innovation act amends communications act provide federal_communications_commission fcc determines consistent public interest spectrum utilization licensee voluntarily relinquish licensed spectrum usage rights permit assignment new initial licenses subject new service rules proceeds granting rights licensee appropriate competitive bidding system shared subject fcc retaining certain offsets deposits specified program qualification implementation costs percentage fcc considers appropriate licensee voluntarily relinquished rights directs fcc establish rules voluntary incentive auction revenue sharing prohibits fcc reclaiming frequencies broadcast television licensees directly indirectly involuntary basis certain licensing purposes


Summary: Community Access Preservation Act or the CAP Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require certain cable system operators, with channel capacity for public, educational, or governmental (PEG) use that is designated by a franchising authority under existing code provisions or required to be provided under this Act, to: (1) carry PEG-use signals to subscribers without material degradation and without altering or removing content or data; (2) provide viewable signals to every cable subscriber without additional service or equipment charges; and (3) provide to the appropriate local government subdivision (LGS), free of charge, any transmission services and the use of any transmission facilities necessary to meet such requirements. Requires a cable operator in a state adopting applicable franchising legislation that becomes effective after May 31, 2005, to: (1) owe any LGS in which the operator provides cable service during a year beginning after enactment of this Act an LGS-determined amount for such year, within specified limits, notwithstanding requirements relating to support for cable system PEG use in such state legislation; and (2) provide a certain number of channels for PEG use in an LGS, notwithstanding requirements relating to the number of PEG-use cable channels in such state legislation. Defines LGS as a franchising authority deriving its power to grant a franchise from state or local law or an entity considered such a franchising authority as of the day before the effective date of such state legislation relating to support. Specifies forms of support as cash payments, in-kind support, and free services provided by the cable system operator, or its predecessor, to the LGS for the cable system's PEG use. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) LGS or state enforcement, (2) nonbinding mediation and court proceedings concerning disputed support amounts, and (3) prerequisites for an LGS to impose additional PEG use requirements. Revises the definition of "franchise fee" including by striking a provision prohibiting such a fee from including (in the case of a franchise granted after the enactment of the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984) capital costs that the franchise requires the cable operator to incur for PEG access facilities.

community access preservation act cap act amends communications act require certain cable system operators channel capacity public educational governmental use designated franchising authority existing code provisions required provided act carry use signals subscribers material degradation altering removing content data provide viewable signals cable subscriber additional service equipment charges provide appropriate local government subdivision free charge transmission services use transmission facilities necessary meet requirements requires cable operator state adopting applicable franchising legislation effective owe operator provides cable service year beginning enactment act determined year specified limits notwithstanding requirements relating support cable system use state legislation provide certain number channels use notwithstanding requirements relating number use cable channels state legislation defines franchising authority deriving power grant franchise state local law entity considered franchising authority day effective date state legislation relating support specifies forms support cash payments kind support free services provided cable system operator predecessor cable system use sets forth provisions state enforcement nonbinding mediation court proceedings concerning disputed support amounts prerequisites impose additional use requirements revises definition franchise fee including striking provision prohibiting fee including case franchise granted enactment capital costs franchise requires cable operator incur access facilities


Summary: State Video Tax Fairness Act of 2011 - Prohibits any state from imposing a discriminatory tax on any means of providing multichannel video programming distribution services, including Internet protocol technology (or any successor protocol), direct broadcast satellite delivery, and cable television services. Defines a tax as discriminatory if the net tax imposed on one means of providing multichannel video service is higher than the net tax rate imposed on another. Applies this prohibition only to any tax imposed on or after January 1, 2011.

prohibits state imposing discriminatory tax means providing multichannel video programming distribution services including internet protocol technology successor protocol direct broadcast satellite delivery cable television services defines tax discriminatory net tax imposed means providing multichannel video service higher net tax rate imposed applies prohibition tax imposed january


Summary: Amends the federal criminal code to permit a video tape service provider to obtain a consumer's consent, which is required to disclose personally identifiable information concerning the consumer: (1) through the Internet, in a form distinct and separate from any form setting forth other legal or financial obligations; and (2) in advance for a set period or until such consent is withdrawn.

amends federal criminal code permit video tape service provider obtain consumer consent required disclose personally identifiable information concerning consumer internet form distinct separate form setting forth legal financial obligations advance set period consent withdrawn


Summary: Spectrum for Innovation Act of 2011 - Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to modify regulations concerning radio frequency devices to allow unlicensed U-NII (Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure) devices, as specified, to operate in the electromagnetic spectrum between the frequencies of 5350-5470 and 5850-5925 megahertz, provided that: (1) licensed users will be protected by technical solutions, including use of existing, modified, or new spectrum-sharing technologies and solutions, such as dynamic frequency selection; and (2) the primary mission of federal spectrum users in such frequency bands will not be compromised by introducing unlicensed devices. Requires the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to submit to Congress a study on known and proposed spectrum-sharing technologies and the risk to federal users if unlicensed U-NII devices were allowed to operate in such bands.

spectrum innovation act directs federal_communications_commission fcc modify regulations concerning radio frequency devices allow unlicensed unlicensed national information infrastructure devices specified operate electromagnetic spectrum frequencies megahertz provided licensed users protected technical solutions including use existing modified new spectrum sharing technologies solutions dynamic frequency selection primary mission federal spectrum users frequency bands compromised introducing unlicensed devices requires assistant secretary commerce_for_communications_and_information submit congress study known proposed spectrum sharing technologies risk federal users unlicensed devices allowed operate bands


Summary: Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to extend until January 1, 2015, the final deadline for private land mobile radio licensees in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands to migrate to narrowband technology.

directs federal_communications_commission fcc extend january final deadline private land mobile radio licensees mhz mhz bands narrowband technology


Summary: Wireless Innovation and Public Safety Act of 2011 - Increases the allocation of electromagnetic spectrum for use by public safety entities by: (1) directing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reallocate to such entities specified frequencies of the 700 MHz D block spectrum, and (2) amending the Communications Act of 1934 to increase public safety services allocation and reduce commercial use allocation by 10 megahertz within a specified range. Authorizes the establishment of a private, nonprofit Public Safety Broadband Corporation to deploy a nationwide, interoperable public safety broadband network based on a single, national network architecture. Requires the FCC to: (1) revoke the license for the public safety broadband spectrum and specified guard band spectrum; and (2) assign a new, single license for such spectrum ranges to the Corporation for a renewable 10-year term to ensure the construction, management, maintenance, and operation of such network. Revises the definition of "public safety services," with respect to the allocation and assignment of new public safety services licenses, to: (1) specify that the sole purpose of such services is to provide law enforcement, fire and rescue response, or emergency medical assistance, including such assistance provided by ambulance services, hospitals, and urgent care facilities (currently, the sole purpose is to protect the safety of life, health, or property); and (2) include services provided by tribal organizations or nongovernmental organizations authorized by a tribal organization (currently, only state or local government entities or nongovernmental organizations authorized by a government entity). Prohibits the FCC from renewing a license to use the narrowband spectrum, or granting an application for an initial license more than three years after enactment of this Act, unless the failure to renew or grant such license would cause considerable economic hardship or adversely impact public safety services. Authorizes the FCC to allow flexible use of the narrowband and guard band spectrum, including for public safety broadband communications. Establishes a grant program for states that establish a State Public Safety Broadband Office. Requires that such grants assist state, local, and tribal public safety entities in: (1) integrating the spectrum, infrastructure, equipment, and other network architecture to satisfy the wireless communications and data services needs of such entities; (2) creating consortium among states to develop proposals serving common network requirements; and (3) identifying assets (available towers and infrastructure) and specialized needs of the public safety entities for inclusion in radio access network proposals. Allows the Corporation, with FCC approval, to: (1) upon such an Office's request, enter agreements with non-public safety entities in the respective states to permit access to the public safety broadband spectrum on a secondary, preemptible basis in order to facilitate interoperability between non-public safety entities and public safety entities during emergencies; and (2) permit a private entity with whom the Corporation contracts on behalf of public safety entities (to construct, manage, maintain, or operate the core network or the radio access network) to obtain access to such spectrum for non-public safety services or share equipment or infrastructure of the public safety broadband network. Directs the Corporation to enter into any written agreements necessary to permit federal agencies to have shared access to the public safety broadband spectrum on an equivalent basis to protect the safety of life, health, and property. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act (NTIA Organization Act) to reestablish and extend matching grants, for a five-year period, to eligible state or local governments or tribal organizations for the implementation, operation, and migration of various 9-1-1, E9-1-1 (wireless telephone location), Next Generation 9-1-1 (voice, text, video), and IP-enabled emergency services and public safety personnel training. Directs the Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information of the Department of Commerce and the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to establish a 9-1-1 Implementation Coordination Office. Provides immunity and liability protection, to the extent consistent with specified provisions of the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999, to various users and providers of Next Generation 9-1-1 and related services, including for the release of subscriber information. Directs the FCC to: (1) initiate a proceeding to create a specialized Do-Not-Call registry for public safety answering points, and (2) establish penalties and fines for autodialing (robocalls) and related violations. Sets forth timetables within which the FCC, for specified spectrum ranges, is required to: (1) assign licenses for nonfederal use through competitive bidding auctions, or (2) reallocate spectrum for unlicensed use. Extends, until September 30, 2021, the FCC's authority to grant a license or permit under applicable competitive bidding provisions. Authorizes the FCC, if it is consistent with the public interest in spectrum utilization for a licensee to voluntarily relinquish licensed spectrum usage rights in order to permit, through competitive bidding, the assignment of initial licenses subject to new service rules (on a flexible-use basis to the extent technologically feasible) or to permit the allocation of spectrum for unlicensed use, to disburse to such licensee, from the competitive bidding proceeds from such relinquishments, an amount based on the value of the licensee's relinquished rights. Requires the FCC, in order to create a geographically contiguous band of spectrum across the United States, to: (1) create a framework to make appropriate portions of the television broadcast spectrum available, and (2) require television broadcast station licensees and other licensees to relocate. Requires that the reclamation or modification of spectrum usage rights of a television broadcast station licensee for the purpose of providing spectrum usage rights to carry out such incentive auctions be on a voluntary basis, except that the FCC, subject to limitations, may: (1) reclaim such rights if it assigns the licensee an identical amount of contiguous spectrum in the same geographic market; and (2) modify such rights, if it is in the public interest, and compensate the licensee for reduced rights. Establishes an Incentive Auction Relocation Fund from which television broadcast station licensees are compensated for specified relocation costs and reduced spectrum usage rights. Requires that certain mobile satellite service spectrum be repurposed for terrestrial broadband use through competitive bidding incentive auctions. Directs the proceeds from specified auctions to be deposited in a Public Safety Trust Fund and used for disbursals to certain licensees voluntarily relinquishing licensed spectrum and deposits to various other funds established to carry out activities required by this Act. Requires remaining amounts to be deposited in the Treasury's general fund for deficit reduction. Amends the NTIA Organization Act to: (1) provide for payment of relocation and sharing costs incurred by federal agencies for certain potential or planned auctions, sharing of spectrum frequencies, or reallocation from federal use to exclusive nonfederal or shared use; and (2) permit federal entities to allow nonfederal entities access to frequency assignments with NTIA approval.

wireless innovation public safety act increases allocation electromagnetic spectrum use public safety entities directing federal_communications_commission fcc reallocate entities specified frequencies mhz block spectrum amending communications act increase public safety services allocation reduce commercial use allocation megahertz specified range authorizes establishment private nonprofit deploy nationwide interoperable public safety broadband network based single national network architecture requires fcc revoke license public safety broadband spectrum specified guard band spectrum assign new single license spectrum ranges corporation renewable year term ensure construction management maintenance operation network revises definition public safety services respect allocation assignment new public safety services licenses specify sole purpose services provide law enforcement fire rescue response emergency medical assistance including assistance provided ambulance services hospitals urgent care facilities currently sole purpose protect safety life health property include services provided tribal organizations nongovernmental organizations authorized tribal organization currently state local government entities nongovernmental organizations authorized government entity prohibits fcc renewing license use narrowband spectrum granting application initial license years enactment act failure renew grant license cause economic hardship adversely impact public safety services authorizes fcc allow flexible use narrowband guard band spectrum including public safety broadband communications establishes grant program states establish requires grants assist state local tribal public safety entities integrating spectrum infrastructure equipment network architecture satisfy wireless communications data services needs entities creating consortium states develop proposals serving common network requirements identifying assets available towers infrastructure specialized needs public safety entities inclusion radio access network proposals allows corporation fcc approval office request enter agreements non public safety entities respective states permit access public safety broadband spectrum secondary preemptible basis order facilitate interoperability non public safety entities public safety entities emergencies permit private entity corporation contracts behalf public safety entities construct manage maintain operate core network radio access network obtain access spectrum non public safety services share equipment infrastructure public safety broadband network directs corporation enter written agreements necessary permit federal agencies shared access public safety broadband spectrum equivalent basis protect safety life health property amends national_telecommunications_and_information_administration_organization_act ntia organization act reestablish extend matching grants year period eligible state local governments tribal organizations implementation operation migration wireless telephone location generation voice text video enabled emergency services public safety personnel training directs assistant secretary communications_and_information_of_the_department_of_commerce administrator national_highway_traffic_safety_administration nhtsa establish implementation coordination office provides immunity liability protection extent consistent specified provisions users providers generation related services including release subscriber information directs fcc initiate proceeding create specialized registry public safety answering points establish penalties fines robocalls related violations sets forth timetables fcc specified spectrum ranges required assign licenses nonfederal use competitive bidding auctions reallocate spectrum unlicensed use extends september fcc authority grant license permit applicable competitive bidding provisions authorizes fcc consistent public interest spectrum utilization licensee voluntarily relinquish licensed spectrum usage rights order permit competitive bidding assignment initial licenses subject new service rules flexible use basis extent technologically feasible permit allocation spectrum unlicensed use disburse licensee competitive bidding proceeds based value licensee relinquished rights requires fcc order create geographically contiguous band spectrum united_states create framework appropriate portions television broadcast spectrum available require television broadcast station licensees licensees relocate requires reclamation modification spectrum usage rights television broadcast station licensee purpose providing spectrum usage rights carry incentive auctions voluntary basis fcc subject limitations reclaim rights assigns licensee identical contiguous spectrum geographic market modify rights public interest compensate licensee reduced rights establishes television broadcast station licensees compensated specified relocation costs reduced spectrum usage rights requires certain mobile satellite service spectrum repurposed terrestrial broadband use competitive bidding incentive auctions directs proceeds specified auctions deposited certain licensees voluntarily relinquishing licensed spectrum deposits funds established carry activities required act requires remaining amounts deposited treasury general fund deficit reduction amends provide payment relocation sharing costs incurred federal agencies certain potential planned auctions sharing spectrum frequencies reallocation federal use exclusive nonfederal shared use permit federal entities allow nonfederal entities access frequency assignments ntia approval


Summary: Next Generation Television Marketplace Act - Repeals provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 concerning: (1) the carriage of distant television stations and significantly viewed signals by satellite carriers, (2) the retransmittal of television signals to eligible state counties in the designated market area of another state by cable operators or satellite carriers, (3) the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) qualified carrier certification process, (4) the designation of cable channels for commercial video programming use, (5) the carriage of local commercial television signals and qualified low power stations by cable operators, (6) the FCC's authority to adopt syndicated exclusivity rules for private home viewing of secondary transmissions by satellite of broadcast station signals, and (7) the requirement that cable systems or other multichannel video programming distributors obtain consent to retransmit a broadcasting station signal. Repeals and revises provisions concerning: (1) the carriage of local television signals by satellite carriers, and (2) the regulation of rates and broadcast signal carriage. Makes several existing requirements concerning the carriage of local television broadcast stations applicable only to qualified noncommercial educational television stations. Repeals federal copyright laws requiring statutory licenses for certain secondary transmissions of distant and local television programming by satellite carriers. Extends exemptions from copyright infringement laws to certain secondary transmissions by cable systems and satellite carriers. Repeals provisions concerning cable system: (1) nonsimultaneous transmission infringement, and (2) statutory licenses for secondary transmissions. Directs the FCC to repeal related FCC rules and eliminate: (1) restrictions on the number of broadcast television stations that a person or entity may own, operate, or control in the same designated market area under the local television multiple ownership rule; (2) the radio-television cross-ownership rule; and (3) limitations on the direct or indirect ownership, operation, or control of a broadcast television station by a person or entity that owns, operates, or controls a daily newspaper under the daily newspaper cross-ownership rule. Requires that this Act take effect on July 1, 2014, subject to the exception that contracts, understandings, and arrangements related to retransmission consent and the distribution of video programming entered into prior to its enactment be provided for under special transitional provisions.

act repeals provisions communications act concerning carriage distant television stations significantly viewed signals satellite carriers television signals eligible state counties designated market area state cable operators satellite carriers federal_communications_commission fcc qualified carrier certification process designation cable channels commercial video programming use carriage local commercial television signals qualified low power stations cable operators fcc authority adopt exclusivity rules private home viewing secondary transmissions satellite broadcast station signals requirement cable systems multichannel video programming distributors obtain consent retransmit broadcasting station signal repeals revises provisions concerning carriage local television signals satellite carriers regulation rates broadcast signal carriage makes existing requirements concerning carriage local television broadcast stations applicable qualified noncommercial educational television stations repeals federal copyright laws requiring statutory licenses certain secondary transmissions distant local television programming satellite carriers extends exemptions copyright infringement laws certain secondary transmissions cable systems satellite carriers repeals provisions concerning cable system transmission infringement statutory licenses secondary transmissions directs fcc repeal related fcc rules eliminate restrictions number broadcast television stations person entity operate control designated market area local television multiple ownership rule radio television cross ownership rule limitations direct indirect ownership operation control broadcast television station person entity owns operates controls daily newspaper daily newspaper cross ownership rule requires act effect july subject exception contracts arrangements related retransmission consent distribution video programming entered prior enactment provided special transitional provisions


Summary: FCC Merging Entities Regulatory Guidance and Ethical Reform Act of 2011 or the FCC MERGER Act - Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to create and implement rules requiring public disclosure of contributions (including financial contributions, contributions in-kind, language to be filed, and offers of employment) received by any party that submits to the FCC facts, arguments, offers of settlement, or proposals of adjustment, whenever such contributions may constitute a potential conflict of interest. Requires that such rules: (1) be applicable to all FCC proceedings, including rulemakings, transfers of licenses, mergers, combinations, and adjudicatory proceedings; and (2) include a requirement of a description of any contributions received from any party or applicant within one year of any such proceeding pending before the FCC, where such contributions may constitute a conflict of interest. Allows contributions to constitute a potential conflict of interest if made by a party with a direct financial interest in the outcome of a pending FCC proceeding. Prohibits a former FCC official from accepting employment from a regulated entity as an employee, officer, director, or consultant within a one year after: (1) presiding over the transfer of licenses acquired or formerly held by the entity offering employment to the officer; (2) presiding over a merger, combination, or adjudicatory proceeding in which the entity offering employment was a party to the proceeding; or (3) issuing a decision to approve such a transfer or with respect to such proceedings. Authorizes the Attorney General (DOJ) to bring a civil action in an appropriate U.S. district court against any person who engages in such prohibited conduct concerning the employment of a former or current FCC official. Sets forth civil penalties for individuals and organizations engaging in such conduct.

ethical reform act fcc merger act directs federal_communications_commission fcc create implement rules requiring public disclosure contributions including financial contributions contributions kind language filed offers employment received party submits fcc facts arguments offers settlement proposals adjustment contributions constitute potential conflict interest requires rules applicable fcc proceedings including rulemakings transfers licenses mergers combinations adjudicatory proceedings include requirement description contributions received party applicant year proceeding pending fcc contributions constitute conflict interest allows contributions constitute potential conflict interest party direct financial interest outcome pending fcc proceeding prohibits fcc official accepting employment regulated entity employee officer director consultant year presiding transfer licenses acquired held entity offering employment officer presiding merger combination adjudicatory proceeding entity offering employment party proceeding issuing decision approve transfer respect proceedings authorizes attorney general doj bring civil action appropriate district court person engages prohibited conduct concerning employment current fcc official sets forth civil penalties individuals organizations engaging conduct


Summary: Protecting Foods and Beverages from Government Attack Act of 2012 - Prohibits the use of any appropriation for print, radio, television or any other media advertisement, campaign, or form of publicity against the use of a food or beverage that is lawfully marketed under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

prohibits use appropriation print radio television media advertisement campaign form publicity use food beverage lawfully marketed cosmetic act


Summary: Expresses the sense of Congress that programs broadcast by the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) should reflect the values, including equality, freedom, and service, to which members of the Armed Forces and Americans aspire, and that the AFRTS should avoid airing programming that has a history of being contrary to such values. Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to certify annually to Congress that such AFRTS-broadcast programming represents best-faith efforts to communicate the DOD's policies, priorities, programs, goals, and initiatives while avoiding airing programming with values contrary to Armed Forces and U.S. values.

expresses sense congress programs broadcast reflect values including equality freedom service members armed_forces americans aspire avoid programming history contrary values directs secretary defense dod certify annually congress broadcast programming represents best faith efforts communicate dod policies priorities programs goals initiatives avoiding programming values contrary armed_forces values


Summary: Four Corners Television Access Act of 2012 - Amends federal copyright law and the Communications Act of 1934 to allow satellite carriers or cable operators to offer certain Colorado-based television broadcast stations to eligible Colorado counties located in a New Mexico-based designated market area if the counties meet specified criteria according to Nielsen Media Research statistics.

corners television access act amends federal copyright law communications act allow satellite carriers cable operators offer certain colorado based television broadcast stations eligible colorado counties located new_mexico based designated market area counties meet specified criteria according statistics