WASHINGTON, D.C. — On August 10, 1993, the FCC was first given Congressional authority to run spectrum auctions. Five months ago, that authority expired for the first time in the agency’s history.
Now, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel is commemorating that anniversary with a plea to Capitol Hill legislators.
“FCC spectrum auctions have fueled American growth for three decades,” she said. “The agency has held 100 auctions and in the process raised more than $233 billion for the United States Treasury. It’s not just that these auctions are a good deal; they are a big reason why the United States leads the world in wireless innovation. They are also an essential part of our economic and national security.”
As such, Rosenworcel added, “The current lapse in spectrum auction authority is unprecedented and it puts this leadership at risk. With the World Radio Conference now only months away, it is vital that this authority is reauthorized as soon as possible.”
