New Task Force Will Tackle Scarce Spectrum Problem

As more wireless and other companies want to use spectrum, the FCC is challenged to divide it up among users efficiently. To that end, the agency has formed a task force on spectrum policy. Members will help the agency to identify and evaluate changes in spectrum policy. Dr. Paul Kolodzy, senior spectrum policy advisor, Office of Engineering and Technology, will head the cross-bureau and multi-disciplinary task force.
FCC Chairman Michael Powell said, “The government has an almost impossible task trying to keep pace with the ever increasing demand for spectrum and continuing advances in wireless technology and applications. In this fast-moving world, the Commission cannot rely on outmoded procedures and policies. We must establish new ways to support innovation and the efficient, flexible use of spectrum.”
The task force will be comprised of senior staff from throughout the FCC.
Commissioners Kevin Martin and Michael Copps feel that relying on a task force is not the way to handle the issue. In a statement they said:
“Task forces can be a tremendous help to the commission in meeting the many challenges we face, from spectrum management to media ownership to homeland security. But they must always be responsible to the full Commission as their work proceeds. These are critically important issues, and we believe they would be better addressed in a Notice of Inquiry issued by the commission.”