# Understanding the FUTURE Networks Act

This bill creates a new task force at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to study and plan for 6G wireless technology—the next generation of mobile networks that will eventually follow today's 5G. Think of it as the government saying, "We need to start thinking about what comes after 5G and how to prepare for it."

The FCC has 120 days to set up this "6G Task Force," which will bring together people from different sectors: telecommunications companies, universities and public interest groups, and representatives from federal, state, local, and tribal governments. However, the FCC chair can exclude any company or organization deemed "not trusted"—meaning those controlled by foreign adversaries or that pose a national security threat. This exclusion power gives the government significant control over who participates in planning America's next-generation wireless future.

Within a year, the task force must produce a detailed report covering where 6G technology currently stands, what it could potentially be used for, any limitations or security concerns, and how different levels of government can work together to deploy it effectively. Before finalizing this report, they'll publish a draft version and accept public comments, giving citizens and businesses a chance to weigh in on the direction of this technology.

For most people, this bill won't have immediate effects—it's essentially a planning and research effort. However, it matters because the decisions made by this task force will influence how 6G networks are built and deployed across the country in the coming years, potentially affecting everything from internet speeds to national security considerations around wireless infrastructure.

FUTURE Networks Act

Matsui, Doris O.

Future Uses of Technology Upholding Reliable and Enhanced Networks Act or the FUTURE Networks ActThis bill requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a 6G Task Force to report on industry-led efforts to set standards for sixth-generation wireless technology and the possible uses and limitations of such technology, among other topics. The task force must publish and solicit public comment on a draft of the report, and must take such comments into consideration in preparing the final report. &nbsp;Members of the task force must include, to the extent practicable, representatives of companies in the communications industry; public interest organizations or academic institutions; and federal, state, tribal, and local governments (with at least one member representing each level of government). Members are to be selected by the chair of the FCC, and generally may not include representatives of entities owned or controlled by, or subject to the influence of, a foreign adversary, or otherwise deemed to pose a threat to U.S. national security.