As our world becomes increasingly connected, access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet has become critical. Unfortunately, millions of Americans still lack access to high-speed internet. A key factor in addressing this present and future need for wireless internet access and mobile phones is the availability of spectrum — the radio frequencies that transmit information wirelessly.
For nearly three decades, the Federal Communications Commission, the agency that controls access to and use of the various spectrum bands for non-federal users, has addressed this issue by holding auctions for spectrum licenses necessary for companies to provide wireless services to consumers. These auctions have been successful in bringing more spectrum to market and increasing competition among providers, and bringing in more than $233 billion to the U.S. Treasury, paid by wireless companies via the auctions.
Spectrum auctions are a rare government approach that has been incredibly successful, but for this success to continue and for the public to benefit from wireless access, more is needed.
Moreover, wireless access is a huge component in addressing the digital divide — the gap in access to communication technologies that hurts millions of minority and low-income communities.
To address the digital divide and ensure that all Americans have access to high-speed internet, Congress must pass legislation that reauthorizes the FCC to continue conducting regular, transparent spectrum auctions.
By facilitating spectrum auctions, Congress can promote healthy competition among telecommunications providers. Increased competition drives innovation, leading to improved service quality, expanded coverage, more affordable pricing options and better services for consumers. Working-class Americans will benefit from these lower costs, allowing them to save money on essential services while enjoying improved internet connectivity.
Additionally, access to reliable internet is vital for students of all ages and our education system. With improved internet access, students can access online educational resources, participate in remote learning, and engage in e-learning platforms. This helps level the playing field and ensures that individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds have equal access to educational opportunities, enabling them to acquire the skills necessary for better career prospects.
Congressional reauthorization would create a stable and predictable environment, encouraging private-sector investment in new technologies and expanding networks that carry the signals. This is crucial to ensure that rural and underserved communities are not left behind in the digital age, as they often lack the necessary infrastructure to attract private investment.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of telehealth services in providing accessible healthcare. Spectrum auction legislation can support the expansion of telehealth infrastructure, allowing patients to access medical services remotely. This reduces barriers to healthcare for those who may face limited access to medical facilities. Improved connectivity allows remote consultations, virtual diagnoses and remote monitoring, thus improving overall healthcare outcomes and reducing costs.
The benefits of consumer use are a huge end goal for spectrum use. The sharp trend of more users relying on wireless access is especially pronounced in underserved communities. For example, one-fourth of U.S. Hispanic adults are the largest segment of “smartphone only” internet users. Hispanic wireless users are twice as likely to rely on their devices to access the internet for everyday needs.
In addition to the practical, everyday benefits, larger issues of American economic completeness on the world stage are also at play, including maintaining an edge against competitors like China, which is becoming less amicable daily.
China and other countries like Japan and France have access to significantly more mid-band spectrum, which is great for 5G use as it can cover large distances and transmit large amounts of data. By comparison, the United States has a deficit of spectrum. American wireless sector has access to just 5 percent of lower mid-band spectrum, while government users have access to 12 times more in the mid-band.
Supporting spectrum auctions is crucial to ensuring that Americans have reliable and affordable internet connectivity. By bridging the digital divide, promoting competition, fostering economic growth, empowering education and enhancing access to healthcare, Congress can help ensure that Americans and small businesses have a crucial tool to create opportunities for social and economic advancement.