Paulsen, Welch Introduce Bill to Remove Barriers to Growing the Internet of Things

Statement

Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) and Congressman Peter Welch (VT-AL) have introduced the Developing Innovation and Growing the Internet of Things (DIGIT) Act to facilitate planning and coordination among government and private entities to support expanded use of the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT is a network of physical, everyday objects that have network connectivity. Advances in technology could mean using the Internet of Things to create life-improving developments for everything from health care to transportation to energy management to simply ensuring a family's groceries are fully stocked.

The DIGIT Act forms a working group consisting of businesses, nongovernmental stakeholders, and federal agencies that would issue guidance on potential regulatory barriers, current and future spectrum needs, and possible security concerns.

"The Internet of Things holds tremendous potential to not only improve our everyday lives, but to find solutions to the most difficult problems we face," said Paulsen. "This technology is developing rapidly, and Congress should take a proactive approach to addressing potential roadblocks that may arise, rather than trying to catch up later. Removing barriers on the front end will pave the way for countless technological advances."

"The Internet of Things is changing our lives in countless ways, from increasing household energy efficiency to improving health outcomes to increasing yields for farmers," said Welch. "As more devices become interconnected, the federal government should encourage growth and innovation that will benefit consumers and businesses alike."

A companion Senate bill was approved Wednesday by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

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