Kinzinger & Loebsack Introduce the Bipartisan "Rural Spectrum Accessibility Act'

Press Release

Today, Congressmen Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) and Dave Loebsack (D-IA) introduced H.R. 1814, the Rural Spectrum Accessibility Act, to expand wireless coverage in rural communities. This bipartisan effort would provide incentives for wireless carriers to make unused spectrum available for rural use and for smaller carriers. On introduction of the bill, the Congressmen issued the following statements:

"Now more than ever, it is critical that we expand the wireless coverage to help rural communities overcome the challenges they face. From small businesses trying to stay competitive in the global market, to the communication needs of farmers, we must make every effort to help these communities reap the full benefits of the technology available to them. I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Loebsack, and to take another step forward to boost economic development in the 16th District and around the country." -- Congressman Kinzinger
"The future of economic development in Iowa and across the country depends, in large part, on access to the internet and mobility," said Congressman Loebsack. "I have met with many small businesses, farmers, and rural telecommunication companies who have stressed the importance of mobile internet access in rural areas. I am pleased to work with Rep. Kinzinger to introduce this legislation that will increase access to wireless broadband to help boost economic development, education opportunities and job growth in rural."

NOTE: The Rural Spectrum Accessibility Act would direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a program that would provide a 3-year extension of the spectrum license to wireless carriers that lease unused spectrum to rural and smaller carriers, encouraging collaboration between companies to bridge service gaps in rural areas.

Source