S-163 : Still Just a Bill


Telecommunications Skilled Workforce Act

This bill establishes measures to address the workforce needs of the telecommunications industry.

Specifically, the bill requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish an interagency working group to develop recommendations for addressing these workforce needs.

The FCC must also establish and issue guidance on how states can meet the workforce needs of the telecommunications industry, including guidance on how a state workforce development board can (1) utilize federal resources available to meet telecommunications industry workforce needs; and (2) promote and improve recruitment in qualified industry-led workforce development programs, including the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program.

The Government Accountability Office must submit to Congress a report that estimates the number of skilled telecommunications workers that will be required to build and maintain (1) broadband infrastructure in rural areas, and (2) the 5G wireless infrastructure needed to support 5G wireless technology.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2022-02-15FloorBy Senator Cantwell from Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation filed written report. Report No. 117-75.Senate
2021-12-16CalendarsPlaced on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 194.Senate
2021-12-16CommitteeCommittee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Cantwell with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.Senate
2021-04-28CommitteeCommittee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.Senate
2021-02-02IntroReferralRead twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. (text: CR S250-251)Senate
2021-02-02IntroReferralIntroduced in SenateLibrary of Congress

Policy Area :

Science, Technology, Communications
Related Subjects
  • Advisory bodies
  • Congressional oversight
  • Employee hiring
  • Employment and training programs
  • Executive agency funding and structure
  • Government studies and investigations
  • Higher education
  • Intergovernmental relations
  • Internet, web applications, social media
  • Military personnel and dependents
  • Rural conditions and development
  • State and local government operations
  • Telephone and wireless communication
  • Veterans' education, employment, rehabilitation
Related Geographic Entities
Related Organizations
  • Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

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