The Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday announced the return of $881 million in unused funds from the TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund, known as the “Repack.”
This, says the Commission, marks “a significant milestone in the successful conclusion of the first-ever spectrum Incentive Auction.” Furthermore, the FCC notes, “The return of these funds reflects the FCC’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, efficient program administration, and reducing the national deficit.”
Initiated on April 13, 2017, the Incentive Auction repurposed 84 MHz of low-band broadcast spectrum for commercial and unlicensed wireless use, generating $19.3 billion in net winning bids.
In accordance with the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 and the Reimbursement Expansion Act of 2018, $2.75 billion was allocated by Congress to reimburse broadcasters and other entities for costs incurred due to involuntary channel reassignments.
“As we come to the end of the Fiscal Year, we found the time was ripe to ‘clean house’ and ensure money does not sit languishing at the agency level when it can be given back to the U.S. Treasury for the financial benefits of the Nation,” FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said.
The broadcast incentive auction itself comprised of two separate but interdependent auctions— a reverse auction, which determined the price at which broadcasters could voluntarily relinquish their spectrum usage rights; and a forward auction, which determined the price companies were willing to pay for flexible use wireless licenses.
“This Fund has successfully supported thousands of broadcasters through licensing, construction, and equipment removal efforts, ensuring a smooth transition to new channels,” the FCC said.
— RBR+TVBR, in Prince William County, Va.
