Powell: FCC’s Spectrum Policy ‘Fractured’

Calling the FCC’s spectrum policy “seriously fractured,” agency Chairman Michael Powell wants it overhauled.
He said current spectrum allocation policies are reactive. As a result, the agency is not able to keep up with “relentless demands” for new spectrum. He favors a greater shift towards market allocation of spectrum, and fostering the ability of users to transfer spectrum in secondary markets.
The FCC also plans to improve interference limits in an effort to more efficiently allocate spectrum, and map out all assigned and unassigned spectrum with identified licensees and uses. The FCC does not have such a comprehensive list of spectrum use now, Powell said.
The spectrum policy overhaul is one of several policy goals outlined by Powell on Tuesday.