Media Contact: 
Gomez.Press@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release
March 11, 2026

FCC COMMISSIONER GOMEZ TO HOST WEBINAR ON THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 1996

WASHINGTON—On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, starting at 12:00 PM ET, FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez will host a webinar featuring panel conversations with communications and technology policy experts who lived through the creation and implementation of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. That year, Commissioner Gomez served as a Legal Advisor in the FCC’s Common Carrier Bureau, helping implement the Act. In the webinar titled “30th Anniversary of the 96 Act: What Did We Learn?” panelists will explore how lessons from the past 30 years can drive innovation and competition for consumers today. Topics will include artificial intelligence, media, competition, convergence, access, and cybersecurity.

Webinar Panel Sessions:
· Panel 1: The Legislative Process That Led to the Act
· Panel 2: FCC Implementation of the Act
· Panel 3: Today’s Challenges

WHEN: Tuesday, March 17, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET

WHERE: Fully virtual. Join online via the FCC Events Webpage or visit https://www.fcc.gov/news-events/events/2026/03/30th-anniversary-96-act-webinar-what-did-we-learn. No registration required.

BACKGROUND: The Telecommunications Act of 1996 was the last major federal effort to establish a new regulatory framework for the technology, media, and telecommunications sectors. Its passage spurred competition, innovation, and investment in faster, better, and more affordable communications services. As innovation accelerates and new challenges emerge, this anniversary offers a timely opportunity to draw on the lessons of the past to help shape policy for the future.

Commissioner Gomez will also join the FCC in hosting a 30th Anniversary Reception on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM ET at FCC Headquarters. The event is open to the public. For more information, click here or visit https://www.fcc.gov/news-events/events/2026/03/30th-anniversary-96-act-reception.

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request. Include a description of the accommodation you will need and tell us how to contact you if we need more information. Make your request as early as possible. Last minute requests will be accepted but may be impossible to fill. Send an e-mail to: FCC504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice).

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Office of Commissioner Anna M. Gomez: (202) 418-2100
ASL Videophone: (844) 432-2275
www.fcc.gov/leadership/anna-gomez