Proposed FCC Rules Could Threaten Local Broadband Competition

Localities could see their internet options limited by proposed Federal Communications Commission rules that would increase priority access license areas and lengths for the 3.5 GHz “innovation” band.

In 2015, the FCC established a new framework for sharing the underutilized wireless spectrum, called the Citizens Broadband Radio Service, which created three tiers: incumbent access, priority access, and general authorized access. Incumbents like naval radar, fixed-satellite service and wireless internet service providers previously operating in the band would be protected from harmful interference by other users. The rest would bid on Priority Access Licenses (PALs) for service areas known as “census tracts,” the size of small cities or towns, or else try their luck in the unlicensed portion of the spectrum.

Another rule change the FCC is considering would increase PAL terms from three years to 10 years with right of renewal for a second, 10-year stint and additional renewal unclear—a 20-year minimum hold on each PEA. The cumulative effect is to further consolidate the mobile industry while providing localities, particularly those that don’t regulate internet providers, with less flexibility of choice, adding WISPA advocates for synergy between small, midsize and large providers.