Wireless group pushes hunt for spectrum

The US wireless industry is pressing a key senator to clear the way for a government study that could accelerate plans to free up airwaves for devices such as smart phones.

Sen Tom Coburn (D-OK) has blocked the Senate's spectrum inventory measure from moving through the chamber because he believes the measure will add to the country's budget deficit due to its $22 million price tag. But a meeting on Tuesday between Sen Coburn and Steve Largent, who heads the CTIA wireless industry trade group yielded some progress, raising hopes the strained wireless industry could get relief.