Rep. Waxman Statement on FCC Steps Toward Implementing Broadcast Incentive Auction

Statement

Ranking Member Henry A. Waxman issued the following statement today in response to the Federal Communications Commission's adoption of a Report and Order implementing the broadcast incentive auction:

"Today marks another key milestone toward successful implementation of the Public Safety and Spectrum Act of 2012. The FCC has made smart choices in balancing the congressional objectives of freeing up highly valuable spectrum for mobile broadband, unleashing the next generation of innovative unlicensed services that will one day fulfill the vision of "Super Wi-Fi", and promoting a competitive wireless marketplace by giving carriers large and small a fair chance to bid for and win spectrum at the auction all while guaranteeing full funding of FirstNet. I thank Chairman Wheeler, Commissioners Clyburn and Rosenworcel, as well as the dedicated staff of the Commission for their shared commitment to these goals and their hard work on this item. I also want to thank the various stakeholders, especially wireless carriers and the high tech community, for working diligently and constructively with the Commission to achieve the right balance of these equally important goals.

"Now we must all redouble our efforts to ensure the auction's success. First and foremost, that will mean attracting as many willing broadcasters as possible to voluntarily participate in the reverse auction in order to maximize the amount of spectrum available for mobile broadband. I look forward to working with the Commission and all stakeholders as the auction moves forward."

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