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Washington, DC– Congressman Brett Guthrie (R-KY) and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA), co-chairs of the Congressional Spectrum Caucus, today reintroduced the Federal Spectrum Incentive Act (H.R.1888).

The radio frequencies known as spectrum power wireless technologies such as smartphones, Wi-Fi, the Internet of Things, and other innumerable applications that affect our daily lives. Demand has skyrocketed over the last decade for more commercial spectrum as use of digital technology has dramatically increased. Technological advances have allowed for more efficient use of spectrum, but because it is a finite resource demand continues to outpace supply.

In many cases, federal agencies hold spectrum licenses that could be repurposed to help meet the demand. The Federal Spectrum Incentive Act would provide financial incentives to encourage government agencies to relocate from their existing spectrum bands, allowing the spectrum to be used for commercial purposes and innovation.

“As our economy rapidly digitizes, we need to free up more spectrum bands so that wireless technology can continue to expand,” said Congressman Guthrie. “Right now, federal agency holdings are so extensive that they may be getting in the way of commercial innovation. However, federal and commercial needs are not mutually exclusive. By providing incentives for government agencies to consolidate their use of spectrum bands, we can encourage innovation in the private sector and lower the cost of wireless technology for consumers. I was proud to join Congresswoman Matsui in reintroducing the Federal Spectrum Incentive Act.”

“Now is the time to free up more of our nation’s airwaves for the invisible infrastructure of the 21st century,”said Congresswoman Matsui. “We have always been a nation of innovators, and our spectrum policies should be no exception. I’m pleased to be joining Congressman Guthrie in this effort to move more federal spectrum into the pipeline, so the United States can lead the world in 5G.”

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