Leaders in the telecommunications industry and various policy institutions have shown strong support for the Senate Commerce Committee's spectrum provision. This proposal, anticipated to be part of the Senate budget reconciliation text, aims to create a significant spectrum pipeline and generate approximately $85 billion for American taxpayers. The initiative seeks to reinstate spectrum auction authority, bolster the economy, meet consumer demands, and reinforce U.S. leadership in wireless technologies while maintaining national security interests.
Senator Ted Cruz released the Senate Commerce Committee's portion of the Republicans' budget reconciliation bill last week. Former President Donald Trump praised Senator Cruz for negotiating a spectrum deal with Senator Roger Wicker and Senator Tom Cotton.
Senator Cruz emphasized that "The Commerce Committee section invests in bold and transformational policies that will positively impact Americans now and for generations to come." He added that these provisions align with the mandate given by voters to unleash America's economic potential and ensure safety from threats.
Several organizations have expressed their approval of this legislative effort:
- Americans for Tax Reform noted that "The Senate Commerce reconciliation bill makes even more spectrum available for auction than the House version."
- AT&T commended the renewal of FCC’s auction authority, stating it represents "a reasonable compromise" beneficial for mobile data demand.
- CTIA – The Wireless Association highlighted that Senator Cruz’s approach is crucial for restoring America’s leadership in wireless innovation.
- Digital Liberty called it "a great step forward for innovation."
- Economic Policy Innovation Center lauded Senator Cruz's work as critical for keeping America ahead of global competitors like China.
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr remarked on Trump's achievement: "Freeing up spectrum is key to America’s economic prosperity & national security."
Other entities such as Free State Foundation, Hispanic Leadership Fund, Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, National Taxpayers Union, Recon Analytics, R Street Institute, T-Mobile, and Verizon also voiced their support. They stressed how this proposal would enhance connectivity infrastructure, foster innovation, secure economic growth, and maintain competitiveness on a global scale.
