5G Spectrum Authority Licensing Enforcement Act
Floor Speech
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 2787, the 5G Spectrum Authority Licensing Enforcement Act, or the 5G SALE Act.
Spectrum is one of our country's most important natural resources. These radio waves are a critical component in building next-generation wireless networks and delivering connectivity to Americans across the country. Without spectrum, our wireless networks would not be able to help millions of Americans study for school, meet with their health provider, connect with family and friends, and place a call to 911 during a time of need. In order to have this kind of connectivity that we have all come to expect, we must ensure that consumers have access to the spectrum that has been made available for commercial wireless use.
S. 2787 achieves these objectives. This legislation gives the FCC the authority for 90 days to process spectrum license applications that are currently pending at the agency from its auction last year of the 2.2 gigahertz band. While I hoped Congress would have extended the SEC spectrum auction authority by now, this legislation is an important step forward in allowing commercial spectrum to be used by consumers, especially those in unserved areas and rural communities.
It is important that we pass this bill today, but even with this action, our work will still not be done. We must find a way forward on a bipartisan, bicameral spectrum agreement that can be sent to the President's desk for his signature. As Chair Rodgers and I have said for months, it is critical that we reauthorize the FCC spectrum auction authority as soon as possible. I am concerned that this lapse will hinder us on the international stage, especially with the World Radiocommunication Conference taking place right now in Dubai.
I commend Representatives Kuster and Joyce for their bipartisan work on the House companion to this bill, H.R. 5677. This important bill helps advance America's wireless leadership by ensuring that 5G spectrum is deployed quickly so that we can further improve consumers' wireless service all around the Nation, especially in rural communities.
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Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, this is important legislation. Obviously, we would like to see spectrum authority in general be authorized, but this is important on its own.
Mr. Speaker, I ask for support of the bill on a bipartisan basis, and I yield back the balance of my time.
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