WASHINGTON-Michael Gallagher has been sworn in as head of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, effectively bypassing the eight-month hold on his nomination by Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.).
Gallagher, who received a recess appointment by President Bush, will serve through November 2005. He was sworn in last week by Commerce Secretary Donald Evans.
NTIA advises the White House on telecom policy and manages federal government spectrum. Gallagher, who has served as acting NTIA chief since late last year, has played a key role in shaping spectrum compromises for third-generation mobile-phone, ultra-wideband and Wi-Fi technologies. In addition, he led an administration effort to fashion spectrum reform recommendations.
