Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1618, the Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act.

The innovations we are seeing in the commercial satellite industry have the potential to transform so many aspects of daily life, especially for those in more rural and remote areas.

For years, Americans have relied on satellites for a variety of services, including global positioning systems, GPS, and radio and television. But within the last decade, satellite capabilities have become more sophisticated and are now being woven into the fabric of our mobile networks. With these advancements, mobile consumers now have even greater connectivity and the comfort of knowing they can reach first responders and loved ones in a time of need, no matter where they may be.

The satellite evolution is also touching American farms by facilitating advancements in precision agriculture. H.R. 1618 promotes the innovation of satellite technology for precision agriculture, which uses satellite images to help farmers yield better crops and maximize their yield profitability.

The legislation directs the FCC to review its satellite service rules to assess whether there are any rule changes that could better enable satellites to deliver precision agriculture solutions.

If the FCC finds that changes are necessary, the bill requires the FCC to develop recommendations for implementing them. It also instructs the FCC to report its findings to Congress, including any recommendations.

I thank Representatives Kelly and Latta for their bipartisan work on this bill. With this legislation, we ensure that the FCC and its satellite rules are enabling technological advancements in the important area of precision agriculture as much as possible.

Mr. Speaker, this is important to the farm community, and it shows the efforts that can be made with satellites for precision agriculture. I think it is important.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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