Bush Administration against Spectrum Used for Free Internet

The mandatory digital transition in February will free up some unused portions of the broadcasting spectrum, and government officials are currently discussing how to best use that space. FCC Chairman, Kevin Martin, made a proposal that the spectrum provide a free Internet access, where there would be advanced wireless communications services on the auction, along with a filter that could control children’s access. The Bush Administration opposes this proposition, however, because it fears this would discourage bidders on the unused broadcasting spectrum.

This is what a letter from Carlos Gutierrez, Commerce Secretary, to Martin seemed to articulate. However, Martin thinks that this plan could only help the government’s goals of creating a universal affordable broadband. Gutierrez responds that “Spectrum allocation decisions that promote a level regulatory playing field and the flexible use of spectrum are the best means to further the success achieved to date in expanding wireless broadband choices for consumers.” Gutierrez’s letter pronounces that this propositions could tend to favor only one business model, which “would likely lead to congested and inefficiently used broadband, and it would be inconsistent with the Administration’s view that spectrum should be allocated by markets rather than governments.”

Answering this letter, Robert Kenny, FCC Spokesman, said “We are reviewing the letter and it appears to be very similar to what the National Telecommunications and Information Administration had put forward recently. We agree that free market forces should drive competition, but we also believe that providing consumers with free basic broadband is a good thing.”

Martin added “Auctions are not just about raising money, they are about setting policies that support increased benefits for consumers and ensure the most efficient use of the spectrum.” The vote is scheduled to take place on December 18th.

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