Industry trade groups are encouraged as the Senate began working on its version of the Republicans’ “big, beautiful bill” last week. The package includes a spectrum pipeline and language to restore the FCC’s auction authority. Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) President/CEO Tim Donovan called the restoration of the Commission’s auction authority “long overdue” and said it’s “essential to ensure continued innovation and investment in next-generation wireless and broadband services.”
NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association commended Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) for incorporating the spectrum language in the Senate budget reconciliation text. “For years, the lapse in FCC spectrum auction authority and the absence of a clear spectrum pipeline have hindered our workforce and delayed deployment of next-generation Internet infrastructure,” said Todd Schlekeway, NATE President & CEO. “Chairman Cruz’s legislative initiative addresses these challenges head-on, paving the way for enhanced wireless infrastructure deployments by NATE member contractor firms across the nation.”
“By unlocking additional spectrum for commercial use, this proposal will enable our member companies to expand and upgrade wireless networks, ensuring that America remains at the forefront of global connectivity,” Schlekeway added. “This is not just about faster internet; it’s about empowering communities, fostering innovation, and securing economic growth.”
CCA is “especially pleased to see the commitment to make at least 800 MHz of spectrum available, with a focus on mid-band spectrum,” Donovan explained. “As negotiations move forward, Congress should ensure that any newly available spectrum is auctioned by the FCC in a way that provides meaningful opportunities for competitive carriers, including those committed to serving rural America.”
CTIA President/CEO Ajit Pai called the restoration of the FCC’s auction authority “critical to restoring America’s leadership in wireless and innovation.” He said Cruz’s “bold approach answers President Trump’s call to keep all options on the table and provides the President with full flexibility to identify the right bands to meet surging consumer demand, safeguard our economic competitiveness, and protect national security.” Pai urged Congress “to move swiftly to pass this legislation and ensure all Americans benefit from world-leading wireless connectivity.”
Wireless Infrastructure Association WIA President/CEO Patrick Halley said, “America’s economic and technological future is premised on bolstering wireless connectivity in every corner of America. Coupled with a continued focus on smart permitting policies, the Senate’s plan to unleash new spectrum will do exactly that.” Halley urged Congress to move quickly to pass the legislation.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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