At Urging of Committee Democrats, FCC Proposes Leveling Playing Field for Small Businesses

Statement

Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) issued the following statement today regarding Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler's proposal to level the playing field for small businesses competing for spectrum at the upcoming broadcast incentive auction. Earlier this week, Committee Democrats sent a letter to Chairman Wheeler urging the Commission to update its designated entities rules in order to encourage meaningful participation by actual small businesses.

"This proposal is welcome news for our country's small businesses that deserve a fair shot at competing in today's wireless marketplace. Small businesses drive our economy, employ millions of Americans, and are often women- and minority-owned, but outdated rules make it even harder for them to thrive.

"The need to modernize these rules and ensure a fair and competitive bidding process is clear. Earlier this week, Energy and Commerce Democrats sent a letter to Chairman Wheeler asking the FCC to do just that, and it appears that our call for reform was heeded. This proposal addresses our recommendations and will help to put in place the smart policies needed to level the playing field and prevent large corporations from gaming the system. I applaud Chairman Wheeler for circulating this bold proposal, and look forward to seeing these reforms enacted."

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