Spectrum Auction Reauthorization: Billions for Next-Gen 9-1-1 and Broadband
This Act reauthorizes the FCC's authority to conduct spectrum auctions, crucial for promoting wireless innovation. It allocates billions of dollars from these auction proceeds to modernize emergency services (Next Generation 9-1-1), allowing citizens to send text and multimedia to first responders. Furthermore, it boosts funding for the reimbursement program to replace insecure communications equipment and supports broadband expansion in eligible communities.
Key points
9-1-1 System Upgrade: Mandates and funds the deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1, enabling citizens to communicate with emergency centers using text, photos, and video, enhancing interoperability.
Wireless Innovation: Identifies and reallocates spectrum bands (such as 3.1-3.45 GHz) for non-Federal or shared use via competitive bidding to support advanced mobile services.
Major Funding Allocation: Establishes a trust fund directing up to $14.8 billion to NG9-1-1 deployment and increases the expenditure limitation for the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program to $4.98 billion.
Digital Equity Focus: Creates a program to help Minority Serving Institutions develop local broadband plans, aiming to bring broadband (defined as 100/20 Mbps) to eligible surrounding communities.
Expired
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