Technical corrections only. The differences between v3 and v4 are limited to the addition of the House Clerk's name and the Senate referral information, reflecting the bill's legislative status. There are no substantive policy changes to the bill's text.
ITS Codification Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Carter, Earl L. "Buddy" [R-GA-1]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 15, 2025
Bottom line
This bill formalizes the role of a key federal spectrum research entity and mandates a new initiative for critical emergency communication technology development, aiming to enhance both spectrum efficiency and public safety.
What it actually does
This bill formally codifies the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), establishing it as the primary laboratory for federal spectrum research and management. It also mandates the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, through ITS, to create an initiative focused on developing emergency communication and tracking technologies for use in confined or shielded environments, such as underground mines or collapsed structures. The initiative includes a needs assessment and support for technical specification development.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that codifying ITS ensures its critical role in spectrum management, research, and innovation is permanently recognized and protected, providing stability for essential government functions. They also highlight the importance of the emergency communication initiative for public safety, enabling better location and rescue of individuals in challenging environments where conventional communication fails.
Opponents contend
No specific organized opposition is typically raised against codifying an existing federal entity or establishing a public safety initiative, especially when it formalizes current operations and addresses a clear need. Potential concerns, if any, might revolve around the scope of the new initiative or resource allocation, but these are not explicitly stated in the provided context.
The bill is concise and can be read and understood quickly, making it accessible for informed evaluation.
Section 2(b) of the Act, adding Section 106(a) to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act.
Codification and Functions of the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS)
This provision formally establishes the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) as a test center within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). It defines ITS as the primary laboratory for the executive branch to study radio frequency emissions, determine spectrum propagation characteristics, test spectrum sharing technologies, improve interference tolerance of Federal systems, and promote Federal spectrum access and sharing. It also grants ITS the authority to enter into various agreements to carry out its functions, ensuring its operational stability and legal framework.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that codifying ITS provides essential stability and clarity to its mission, ensuring the continuity of critical spectrum research and management functions that benefit both federal and commercial users. This formal recognition underscores its importance as the government's premier expert laboratory for spectrum activities, enabling more effective long-term planning and investment.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this provision, as it largely formalizes an existing and widely recognized function. Potential concerns, if any, might relate to the scope of its authority or resource allocation, but these are not explicitly articulated in the bill text.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need for stable, dedicated federal research capacity in spectrum management with the flexibility to adapt to evolving technological landscapes. It also navigates the tension between federal spectrum needs and commercial demand by promoting sharing and clearing opportunities through enhanced research.
Section 2(b) of the Act, adding Section 106(b) to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act.
Establishment of Emergency Communication and Tracking Technologies Initiative
This provision directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, acting through ITS, to create an initiative focused on developing emergency communication and tracking technologies. These technologies are specifically intended for locating individuals trapped in confined or shielded environments, such as underground mines, high-rise buildings, or collapsed structures, where conventional radio communication is limited. The initiative requires ITS to perform a needs assessment, identify technical specifications, and support the development of conformance architecture in collaboration with private sector entities and other federal agencies. A report on the assessment is due to Congress within 18 months.
Defines "Federal spectrum" as frequencies assigned on a primary basis to a Federal entity (as defined in section 113(l) of the same Act).
Section 2(b) of the Act, adding Section 106(a)(4) to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act.
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for defining terms and ensuring consistency with existing statutory frameworks rather than being evasive. It avoids redundancy by referencing an existing definition.
Case for: Supporters argue that a clear and consistent definition of "Federal spectrum" is essential for ITS to effectively carry out its mandate regarding spectrum management, sharing, and clearing, ensuring all stakeholders operate with a common understanding of the scope of its work.
Case against: No specific opposition is typically raised against technical definitions that clarify the scope of an agency's work, as they are generally seen as necessary for legal precision.
Estimated impact: Clarifies the specific scope of ITS's activities, impacting all federal agencies that use spectrum and commercial entities involved in spectrum use and sharing, by precisely defining the domain of ITS's primary focus.