What's Happening?
The Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (WISPA) and several rural broadband service operators are urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to maintain the current allocation of the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum.
WISPA, representing around 500 rural fiber and wireless service providers, argues that relocating current CBRS users or altering the spectrum's power levels would impose significant costs and disrupt services. Many of WISPA's members, who acquired Priority Access Licenses (PAL) in 2020, rely on CBRS for broadband services, including projects under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The FCC's mandate, under President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), to auction 800MHz of spectrum has raised concerns about potential changes to the CBRS band. WISPA and other stakeholders warn that such changes could lead to service outages and increased operational costs, particularly affecting rural communities.
Why It's Important?
The debate over the CBRS spectrum is crucial for rural broadband providers who depend on it to deliver internet services to underserved areas. Any changes to the spectrum allocation could lead to increased costs and service disruptions, impacting millions of Americans who rely on these services. The potential reallocation of the CBRS band for 5G use, as advocated by major telecom companies like AT&T, could prioritize urban areas over rural needs, exacerbating the digital divide. Maintaining the current CBRS allocation is vital for ensuring continued broadband access in rural regions, supporting economic development, and bridging the digital gap.
What's Next?
The FCC is expected to continue deliberations on the future of the CBRS spectrum. Stakeholders, including rural ISPs and major telecom companies, will likely intensify their lobbying efforts to influence the FCC's decision. The outcome will have significant implications for the deployment of broadband services in rural areas and the broader telecommunications landscape. The FCC's decision will also set a precedent for how spectrum is allocated and managed in the future, balancing the needs of rural and urban areas.
