U.S. House Passes Bipartisan Veasey-Led MEDIA Diversity Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, the United State House of Representatives passed the Veasey-led "MEDIA Diversity Act"—bipartisan legislation that would amend the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission to consider market entry barriers for women and minorities in the communications marketplace report under section 13 of such Act.

"Right now, our country is facing an identity crisis—and the lack of diversity and inclusion in our communications sector only exacerbates the problem" said Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33). " Even though it is widely acknowledged that women and people of color are severely underrepresented in ownership ranks, we lack the data to show how they continue to face obstacles in their ability to participate in the media marketplace. I am proud to join my colleagues to pass this legislation that will mitigate this problem by requiring the FCC to consider, with the input of its Office of Communications Business Opportunities of the Commission, market entry barriers for socially disadvantaged individuals in the communications marketplace."

The legislation builds on Veasey's robust resume of expanding opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds. During the 116th Congress, Veasey has used his position on the Energy and Commerce Committee to push legislation that would strengthen access to health care coverage, expand opportunities for those working in the technology field and bolster access to broadband for all Americans amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.