Reaffirming Commitment to Media Diversity

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 277, a resolution introduced by our colleague, Mrs. Demings.

This resolution reaffirms the commitment by Congress to work with media entities and diverse stakeholders to find common ground solutions to eliminate barriers to expanding diversity in our media. While today's resolution focuses specifically on broadcast stations, this problem is not unique to one segment of the industry, but to their cable and digital streaming competitors in the marketplace as well.

I appreciate the many steps that the broadcast and cable industries have taken to not only recognize these barriers, but the many programs and initiatives they have put in place to promote opportunities for women, minorities, and veterans. However, data shows we have some room for improvement.

While the House is considering this resolution today, it is my hope that we can work together in a bipartisan manner to address the inequality that this resolution seeks to address. Republicans on the Energy and Commerce Committee have put forward solutions to uplift minority voices and promote media diversity that can breathe life into this resolution before us today.

Today, we are also considering H.R. 1754, the MEDIA Diversity Act, sponsored by Mr. Long, which would help us better understand the market and regulatory barriers for socially disadvantaged individuals to enter and compete in the marketplace so we can make informed policy decisions.

We have also worked with advocates and industry alike as we try and find consensus on legislation to establish the long-sought-after broadcast incubator program to help increase the number of minority- owned broadcast stations.

Last Congress, Republicans introduced the Broadcast Diversity in Leadership Act, which would incentivize large, established broadcasters to work with aspiring broadcasters to break down barriers to capital and provide mentorship and experience to new minority entrants to ensure their longstanding success in serving their local communities.

While the Supreme Court has recently reinstated the Republican-led pilot program, Congress should continue working to ensure it is expanded and made permanent with improved safeguards. We urge the majority to continue working with us on these important issues.

With the passage of this resolution, we are affirming our commitment to work toward common ground solutions, and Republicans stand ready to work across the aisle to turn our common ground solutions into law.

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Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I have no additional speakers.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I urge support of H. Res. 277, I ask the House for its passage today, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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