NTIA’s 2021 Spectrum Policy Symposium Showcases Cooperation Among Key Decision-Makers

The National Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA)’s 2021 Spectrum Policy Symposium brought together key policymakers and industry experts to explore how a “whole of government” approach to spectrum policy can address US priorities for 21st-century global leadership. Each keynote speaker highlighted the importance of spectrum to the economy, US technological leadership, innovation, and federal government missions. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of having “a national spectrum strategy that involves all major governmental stakeholders” to channel and support a whole-nation approach to spectrum policy. Acting Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel highlighted how a strong FCC-NTIA partnership can support broad US priorities, including addressing the digital divide. She noted the current example of cooperation among NTIA, the FCC, and the US Department of Defense to auction the 3.45 GHz band in October 2021. In his remarks, House Energy and Commerce Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Mike Doyle (D-PA) emphasized that Congress understands the importance of spectrum in Americans’ everyday lives. Doyle echoed the need for greater partnerships and collaboration to identify spectrum for 5G, strongly supporting NTIA’s role as the voice of the executive branch agencies. He suggested updating a Memorandum of Understanding between NTIA and the FCC on spectrum policy matters and potential changes to make more flexible use of the Spectrum Relocation Fund as two areas that could be helpful in improving spectrum access decisions.