5G for 12GHz Coalition Statement on FCC Final Report & Order Comment Submission
Coalition calls on Commission to open 12.2-12.7 GHz spectrum band to competition and shared use in comment submission.
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 9th, 2023 – The 5G for 12 GHz Coalition issued the following statement today after submitting its comments to the FCC in response to the Commission’s Final Report & Order on expanding flexibility in the 12.2-12.7 GHz band. In its filing the Coalition urged the FCC to maximize the 12.2-12.7 GHz band’s amazing potential for American providers and consumers.
The FCC has an opportunity in the 12.2-12.7 GHz band to make real progress towards closing the digital divide while protecting existing users and agreements. The 12.2-12.7 GHz band is ready for immediate deployment without requiring an FCC spectrum auction. The Commission’s examination of the 12 GHz band has been thorough thanks to a robust record and substantial technical data demonstrating this band’s suitability for high speed fixed wireless deployments.
Therefore, the FCC should update the band’s rules to allow MVDDS Licensees to deploy high-powered two-way fixed broadband services. This will achieve dual goals of providing a robust fixed service while protecting DBS and NGSO FSS incumbents.
The Coalition echoes comments from stakeholders like Tribal Ready, OTI, and Public Knowledge, urging the Commission to establish rules for a Tribal set aside in the 12 GHz band. Previous actions by the FCC have recognized the value of a set aside in tribal areas as an option to help close the digital divide.
The FCC must act now – as states begin to implement their BEAD proposals – to unleash 500 MHz of mid-band spectrum. Multiple technical reports have clearly demonstrated that the 12.2-12.7 GHz band is a viable answer to meeting connectivity needs. With its promise to permit coexistence and its unique propagation characteristics, no other band represents the same generational opportunity to bring high speed fixed wireless access to all Americans.
For more information, please click here: 5Gfor12GHZ.com
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