Spectrum auctions could address public safety, broadband deployment and deficit...
Spectrum auctions could address public safety, broadband deployment and deficit reduction goals, Republicans on the House Commerce Committee said in a Friday memo circulated among lobbyists. “Spectrum policy will play a critical role in bringing interoperable broadband communications to public…
Sign up for a free preview to unlock the rest of this article
Communications Daily is required reading for senior executives at top telecom corporations, law firms, lobbying organizations, associations and government agencies (including the FCC). Join them today!
safety, in advancing wireless broadband, and in reducing the deficit,” the memo said. “A nimble, constructive approach to the next bands of spectrum to be brought to market will meet all three goals. Auctioning spectrum is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to advance broadband deployment.” The memo listed several spectrum bands that could be auctioned: AWS-3, the 700 MHz D-block, AWS-2 H-block, broadcast TV spectrum and mobile satellite service. “While there is little outright opposition to incentive auctions, concerns remain about how to conduct such auctions equitably,” the committee GOP said. “Broadcasters emphasize that incentive auctions should be truly ‘voluntary.’ Broadcasters also raise concerns about how licensees wishing to retain their spectrum might be ‘repacked’ after other licensees voluntarily participate in incentive auctions.” The Communications Subcommittee has a hearing about spectrum auctions Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Room 2123, Rayburn House Office Building. Witnesses are: CTIA Vice President Chris Guttman-McCabe; Qualcomm Vice President Dean Brenner; Titan Broadcast Management President Bert Ellis; Schurz Communications CEO Todd Schurz; Public Knowledge Legal Director Harold Feld; and Michelle Connolly, an economics professor at Duke University.