Senator Deb Fischer Leads Hearing on AI's Impact on U.S. Communications Networks
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, Chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, convened a hearing on July 30 to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming communications networks in the United States. The hearing, titled 'Intelligent Networks: Powering Artificial Intelligence and Transforming Communications,' featured testimonies from industry leaders such as Dan Watermeier, Commissioner of the Nebraska Public Service Commission, and Jonathan Spalter, President and CEO of USTelecom. Fischer emphasized the growing demand for reliable, high-speed infrastructure as AI applications expand. She highlighted the need for AI-supportive networks to maintain U.S. economic and security leadership, noting that nearly three-quarters of enterprises used AI for at least one business function in 2024. Fischer also addressed regulatory challenges, advocating for clearer regulations to facilitate network development.