This bill modernizes U.S. spectrum policy to strengthen national security and support next-generation wireless networks. It authorizes the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to continue conducting spectrum auctions through September 2030 and establishes a new framework for managing shared spectrum between federal government agencies and commercial users.
The legislation creates a $120 million capability to help federal agencies coordinate shared spectrum use with private companies, particularly through advanced technologies like dynamic spectrum sharing. It also requires a comprehensive feasibility study on making certain radio frequency bands (7.1-8.5 GHz and 37-37.6 GHz) available for commercial use or sharing, with results due within two years. The bill promotes spectrum research through a national testbed and research plan to improve how efficiently radio frequencies are used.
On workforce development, the bill establishes a new grant program providing funding to historically Black colleges, tribal colleges, and Hispanic-serving institutions to develop telecommunications training programs and apprenticeships. It also directs creation of a national spectrum workforce plan. Additionally, the bill upgrades the Under Secretary of Commerce for Communications to cabinet rank and creates a Spectrum Advisory Council to improve interagency coordination.
The legislation establishes a $20.6 billion Spectrum Auction Trust Fund from future spectrum auction revenues, dedicating funds to deficit reduction, infrastructure research, cybersecurity initiatives, and Next Generation 9-1-1 emergency communications deployment. It extends reimbursement authority for removing problematic communications equipment from networks and sets December 2027 as the deadline for completing an auction of frequencies in the 12.7-13.25 GHz band.
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