Legislation is a Solid First Step Toward Consumer-Friendly Wireless Broadband

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: July 19, 2010
Contact: Liz Rose, Communications Director, 202-265-1490 x 32

WASHINGTON -- Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) and Senate Communications Subcommittee Chairman John Kerry (D-Mass.) introduced the Spectrum Measurement and Policy Reform Act today. The bill starts the process of implementing the recommendations of the Federal Communications Commission in the National Broadband Plan related to spectrum policy. It sets a path toward making additional spectrum available for wireless broadband use, and authorizes the FCC to conduct spectrum incentive auctions.

M. Chris Riley, Free Press policy counsel said:

“This legislation is a good first step down the path of creating a more competitive market for wireless broadband services. Making additional spectrum available for licensed and unlicensed use is an important goal. We commend Senator Snowe and Chairman Kerry for this effort, and we encourage swift passage through the Committee and then through the full Senate and the House.

“After this bill, the next steps will be at the Federal Communications Commission, where many hard questions remain. We look forward to working with Congress and the Commission toward shaping a more consumer-friendly wireless broadband future.”