Genachowski: Broadband Plan Will Be Bold, Pro-Active, Addressing Spectrum Shortages and Adoption Problems

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski says the FCC's upcoming broadband plan will propose bold, proactive steps to close the so-called digital divide. The Chairman voiced those sentiments in a letter to Henry Rivera, chairman of the FCC's diversity committee. Although it was dated Jan. 5, the letter appeared to respond to concerns expressed by Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) in an op-ed (see http://www.benton.org/node/31007).

In his letter to Rivera, Genachowski cited pending spectrum shortages and adoption problems, among others, that he pledge would be addressed. "I reiterate that these gaps must be addressed boldly" he said. "In the National Broadband Plan, the agency will identify the proactive steps the commission will take..." He added that they were initial steps. Among the highlights of the letter: the chairman said he thought it best to have the director of the FCC's Office of Communications Business Opportunities (OCBO) Thomas Reed, at present, "play the lead role." The diversity committee had recommended that the commission designate one commissioner to oversee implementation of its recommendations on spurring access to capital and funding for minorities and women.