NAB: FCC Needs to Collect Comprehensive Wireless Spectrum Use/Efficiency Data

The Federal Communications Commission asked for input on the state of the wireless industry and the National Association of Broadcasters has some advice for it: Figure out how, where and to what extend wireless carriers are using the spectrum they already have.

NAB argues that neither the FCC nor Congress can advance sound spectrum policy -- that would appear to include holding a broadcast spectrum auction to relieve the perceived crunch -- until it collects that data. NAB says that while wireless carriers are busy telling the FCC in their comments that they need more spectrum, the FCC should instead be focused on "whether and how intensely licensees use spectrum and where," NAB says. "Without this critical information, the Commission cannot make optimal -- or even rational -- spectrum management decisions."