Waiver Requests: How About 700 MHz Band?

After two government entities requested waivers from FCC rules to use certain frequencies for their public safety radio network, the Commission issued a routine public call for comments on the requests, but then added, “we also seek comment on whether the 700 MHz public safety band would provide a viable alternative.” Both Marin County (N. Calif.) and Bayonne (NJ) want to use frequencies not assigned to public safety, saying there are no frequencies in their very-congested regions. Instead, they ask to use paging and various other channels for their network. Apparently the FCC now includes a standard paragraph to point out, “the approaching February 17, 2009 digital television transition date, and the Commission’s recent actions in facilitating a nationwide, interoperable public safety network.” Download (pdf) and read the Marin County and Bayonne requests to check the new wording.