U.S. Senator Proposes Spectrum Hand-Over Bill

On its face, legislation proposed by U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) would end a long debate over how to allocate 10 MHz of spectrum intended to create a nationwide, wireless, broadband network for public safety agencies. But Rockefeller’s proposal—give the spectrum to public safety, and don’t auction it—would have other far-reaching effects, including for businesses that sell radios or communications services. Last year the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommended that the spectrum be auctioned, with the revenue going to create the network. The commission’s position has been supported by the Obama administration. But the plan is generally opposed by public safety agencies, who want control of the spectrum. Rockefeller’s bill could provide a benefit to AT&T and Verizon, since the spectrum would be unavailable for companies such as T-Mobile, which needs additional frequencies. The bill could also benefit Motorola, since an auction could increase competition in the radio handset market. In a statement, the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) thanked Rockefeller for introducing the bill. Council chair Ralph Haller said, NPSTC’s Chair Ralph Haller said, “I am hopeful that others in leadership will step forward to support building the public safety broadband network and providing funding to support public safety in this critical effort.” The bill is part of a legislative package proposed by Rockefeller that includes auctioning certain broadcast TV spectrum. Read more about the bill and its effects here, and some background information here. Update: Rockefeller has now posted the proposed bill (pdf) and a press release about it.