NEBSA members should be aware that significant action impacting EBS has been proposed by the FCC. NEBSA will continue to provide information and keep you briefed throughout the process. All interested parties should be reviewing their specific circumstances and ongoing developments. Licensee comments and feedback are vital at this time.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at their May, 2018 Open Commission Meeting, unanimously adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposing rule changes to promote more efficient and effective use of 2.5 GHz spectrum. The NPRM proposes to increase flexibility for existing Educational Broadband Service (EBS) licensees, and seeks comments on providing new opportunities for educational entities, rural Tribal nations and commercial entities to access currently unused portions of the band. It appears that the NPRM will also seek comment on using auctions, including perhaps an incentive auction, to allocate 2.5 GHz spectrum going forward.
Comments from EBS licensees, those seeking new licenses and interested parties are being requested by the FCC. The text of the NPRM may be found under the NPRM menu on the NEBSA website. Additional information and updates will be posted as they become available.
EBS licensees and interested organizations are encouraged to share comments and feedback throughout the process.