On the recordAugust 5, 2010
I rise today to introduce the Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act. Radio spectrum is a very valuable resource. It can grow our economy and put new and innovative wireless services in the hands of consumers and businesses. It can enhance our public safety by fostering communications between first responders when the unthinkable occurs. But it is also scarce. That is why we need a forward-thinking spectrum policy that promotes smart use of our airwaves--and provides public safety officials with the wireless resources they need to keep us safe. The Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act will do just that. First, this legislation will provide the Federal Communications Commission with the authority to hold incentive auctions. This will help put valuable spectrum resources into the hands of companies that can create innovative new services for American consumers and businesses. Second, this legislation will provide public safety officials with an additional 10 megahertz of spectrum known as the ``D-block.'' This spectrum will support a national, interoperable wireless broadband network that will help first responders protect us and keep us from harm.
