U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii has been named a ranking member — that is, the top Democrat — on the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation and the Internet.

The subcommittee “oversees matters relating to the telecommunications industry,” according to Schatz’s office, and has jurisdiction over the Federal Communications Commission and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

“I am looking forward to serving as the lead Democrat on this subcommittee,” Schatz said in a statement. “Innovation and technology are some of the biggest drivers of our economy and can help solve some of today’s toughest challenges.”

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz.

PF Bentley/Civil Beat

Schatz added, “In my new role, one of my top priorities will be increasing access to broadband across the country and throughout Hawaii. Open and fast internet access is critical for residents and businesses across the islands and will create high quality jobs and help Hawaii diversify its economy.” 

According to The Hill, Schatz received the appointment after former Sen. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.) was defeated in his re-election race.

“The selection comes at a critical time for the committee, and could be a powerful perch for Schatz to have his say,” says The Hill. “On Wednesday, the panel is scheduled to hold a hearing on possible net neutrality legislation, a year after a federal court tossed out old rules from the Federal Communications Commission. Fighting over the bill has the potential to create deep partisan divides on Capitol Hill.”