The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is looking for input on federal policy related to the Internet of Things (IoT).  On April 5, NTIA published a request for comment on federal efforts to promote IoT efforts and foster innovation.  The Department of Commerce will use the comments to develop a “green paper” identifying key issues affecting deployment of IoT technologies, potential challenges and opportunities, and possible roles for the federal government.  A “green paper” is typically used as a first step before policy changes are advanced.

Given the breadth of industries affected by IoT, including health care, transportation, and energy, and the vast number of issues that industry and government are grappling with, it is important to ensure that NTIA hears from a variety of sectors and experts on the impacts of IoT and where government can be helpful or interfere with innovation.  The NTIA poses 28 questions for comment including questions about technology, policy, infrastructure, economic impact, and international engagement.  The deadline for filing comments is May 23, 2016.  Crowell & Moring is available to assist in preparing comments.