EWA Files Comments on 4.9 GHz Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

Publication Date: 
January 13, 2021

On January 13, 2021, the Enterprise Wireless Alliance filed comments in response to a Federal Communications Commission proposal to open the 4.9 GHz band to greater sharing by turning management over the states which could lease spectrum to a variety of entities. In its comments, EWA stated that it is necessary for the FCC to oversee the process to ensure that this very valuable spectrum is managed fairly and effectively within the states. EWA also noted that the states should absolutely embrace the opportunity to derive revenue by leasing this valuable asset to a wide variety of entities, some of which may be mission critical public safety users, but also to businesses that otherwise contribute to state economies.  EWA agreed with the Commission’s premise that the potential of the 4.9 GHz band has not been realized. Assigning spectrum leasing rights to the states, with the possibility of relying on State Band Managers to coordinate public safety operations, creates possibilities that do not exist today for EWA members and others in need of mid-band broadband spectrum.  For that reason, EWA supported the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking with the understanding that the FCC monitor leasing activity to ensure that the spectrum is being utilized in support of the public interest.