Husted Appointed to Federal Communications Commission Advisory Committee

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Lt. Governor Jon Husted today announced he has accepted an appointment to serve as a member of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (IAC).

The IAC’s mission is to provide aid to the FCC on the many telecommunications issues affecting local, state and Tribal governments that are within the jurisdiction of the FCC. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai announced the new members of the committee last week, which included Lt. Governor Husted being named as a State Executive Representative.

As Director of InnovateOhio, Lt. Governor Husted has played an integral role in the state’s effort to expand and improve high-speed internet access through the Ohio Broadband Strategy released at the end of 2019, and the launch of the BroadbandOhio office within the Development Services Agency.

Recent projects include a K-12 Broadband Connectivity grant program for Ohio schools and the creation of a procurement site where internet providers can list their equipment and pricing information in one centralized location to help superintendents and technology coordinators make the best purchasing decisions based on their broadband needs.

“When I met with Chairman Pai earlier this year, I emphasized the importance of expanding access to high-speed internet to underserved families and businesses across Ohio,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “I expressed our sense of urgency for expanding access, because as I continue to say, people can’t participate in the modern economy, healthcare and education systems without it. I appreciate Chairman Pai for appointing me to this committee to help give Ohio a direct voice in the development and implementation of a national strategy.”

The IAC works to produce specific deliverables that will further the commission’s mission and objectives, which may include, but not be limited to, those related to increasing deployment and adoption of broadband services, strengthening public safety communications infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, and any other task necessary to help government officials clarify or explain Commission rules and policies to their constituents and other members of the public.