WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), on Wednesday was named Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet.  The panel, which is part of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, has broad jurisdiction over communications matters, including the Internet, cable, satellite and broadcast television, telephones, cell phones and wireless broadband.  Wicker is a senior member of the Commerce Committee, and the number two ranking Republican.

“As Ranking Member, I look forward to examining the current state of the communications and technology sectors to ensure quality broadband access to all corners of America, particularly in rural areas like my home state of Mississippi,” said Wicker.  “I will continue to work with my colleagues to achieve a level playing field for all broadband providers.  Now is a good time to seriously examine our nation’s telecommunications laws to create a framework that enhances marketplace flexibility, promoting the best services at the most competitive rates to consumers.”

Wicker added, “As our economy recovers, the telecommunications, media, and technology industries offer lessons for job creation and growth.  Broadband access is necessary for economic development for the 21st-century workforce.  We need the continued growth and innovation that increased broadband access provides.” 

In addition to serving as Ranking Member of the Communications subcommittee, Wicker was named to the following subcommittees: Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security; Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard; Science and Space; Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security.