FCC Seeks Comment on Mid-Band Spectrum Auction

The Federal Communications Commission adopted a Public Notice seeking comment on procedures for the auction of 100 megahertz of mid-band spectrum in the 3.45–3.55 GHz band that can be used to facilitate 5G deployment across the contiguous US. Bidding in Auction 110 is expected to begin in early Oct 2021. This Public Notice works in concert with new rules for the 3.45 GHz band that were also adopted March 17, establishing a framework for coordination of non-federal and federal use and establishing a band plan. In legislation passed in 2020, Congress required the FCC to commence a system of competitive bidding for licenses in the 3.45 GHz band by the end of 2021. March 17’s actions position the FCC to fulfill that mandate.