S.Amdt. 2614

As folks keeping an eye on how our government operates, it is our job to look at what officials like Ms. Cantwell are proposing. This amendment, labeled SA 2614, makes changes to section 40002 of the underlying bill regarding spectrum auctions.

Here is what the amendment aims to change or add:

• It strikes the old section 40002 entirely and replaces it with new rules for spectrum auctions and frequency reallocations.
• It extends the general auction authority expiration date for the Federal Communications Commission to September 30, 2034, while explicitly carving out specific frequency bands where this authority does not apply.
• It requires the Commission to grant licenses through competitive bidding for not less than 300 megahertz, which includes completing competitive bidding for at least 100 megahertz in a specific band within 2 years of the Act's enactment.
• It directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, working with the Commission, to identify 500 megahertz of additional frequencies for reallocation to non-Federal use, shared use, or a mix of both, following a specific 2-year and 4-year schedule.
• It sets up required analyses to check the feasibility, costs, and net revenue potential of reallocating these frequencies to maximize proceeds for the Treasury.
• It establishes a schedule for the Commission to complete competitive bidding for the newly identified frequencies within 4 years and 8 years of the Act's enactment.
• It includes a limitation allowing the President to modify or withdraw frequencies to protect national security 60 days before an auction starts.