ITS Codification Act
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (16 Sep 2026): Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
What this bill does
This bill, the ITS Codification Act, would formally establish the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) as a laboratory within the executive branch. ITS would study radio frequency emissions, spectrum sharing between federal and non-federal users, and technology interference. The bill also directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to create an initiative focused on developing emergency communication and tracking technologies, particularly for use in environments where radio signals are limited, like underground mines or collapsed buildings.
The ITS would function as a research center for the federal government, with its activities potentially involving agreements with private sector entities and other federal agencies. The initiative to develop emergency technologies would involve assessing needs and supporting the creation of technical specifications and conformance architectures to improve their reliability. This initiative would require collaboration with private companies and relevant federal agencies.
This bill was introduced in the Senate on July 13, 2026. It was then referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, which has ordered it to be reported with an amendment. The next step in the legislative process would typically involve the bill being considered by the full Senate.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
16 Sep 2026
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Common questions
- What does S. 4950 do?
- This bill, the ITS Codification Act, would formally establish the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) as a laboratory within the executive branch. ITS would study radio frequency emissions, spectrum sharing between federal and non-federal users, and technology interference. The bill also directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to create an initiative focused on developing emergency communication and tracking technologies, particularly for use in environments where radio signals are limited, like underground mines or collapsed buildings. The ITS would function as a research center for the federal government, with its activities potentially involving agreements with private sector entities and other federal agencies. The initiative to develop emergency technologies would involve assessing needs and supporting the creation of technical specifications and conformance architectures to improve their reliability. This initiative would require collaboration with private companies and relevant federal agencies. This bill was introduced in the Senate on July 13, 2026. It was then referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, which has ordered it to be reported with an amendment. The next step in the legislative process would typically involve the bill being considered by the full Senate.
- Has S. 4950 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for S. 4950. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored S. 4950?
- S. 4950 was sponsored by Sen. Duckworth, Tammy [D-IL] (D-IL), with 1 cosponsor.
- What's the latest action on S. 4950?
- Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably. (16 Sep 2026).
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