Washington, D.C. - Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR) and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Republican Leader Bob Latta (R-OH) released the following statement on the White House’s announcement that it would make 100 MHz of mid-band spectrum in the 3.45-3.55 GHz band immediately available for non-federal, commercial wireless use.
“Yesterday’s announcement is great news for the future of American innovation. Making this valuable, mid-band spectrum available for unencumbered commercial use will help propel the United States forward in technological advancement, like deploying 5G, closing the digital divide, and improving connectivity across the nation. As more Americans rely on connectivity, and as countries like China continue their efforts to overtake American leadership, our work to revolutionize American competitiveness is more important than ever. Our committee has long advocated for repurposing spectrum for commercial uses, and we’re pleased the Administration is taking steps to ensure the United States continues to be the leader in the 21st century technologies that will shape our future," said Walden and Latta.
In February 2018, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) identified the 3.45-3.55 GHz band as a candidate for potential repurposing. Earlier this year, NTIA released a technical report indicating that spectrum sharing opportunities were possible in this band.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Federal Communications Commission are the expert agencies on spectrum management. The Committee on Energy and Commerce has jurisdiction on these issues.
