A Framework for Innovative Federal Spectrum Policy

As the U.S. economy regains momentum, policymakers and economists are considering the long-range impact of wireless spectrum policy on job creation and innovation. What is the Federal Communications Commission’s role in fostering innovation via spectrum policy, and which regulation rulings would be the most effective or harmful? Do auctions help or hurt the innovation engine? How should the government balance various stakeholders’ interests in their pursuit for additional bandwidth that is both fair and economically sensible?

On March 30, the Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings hosted a forum on the spectrum’s role in advancing economic growth and innovation, focused on identifying a concrete policy framework. Moderated by Governance Studies Director Darrell West, a panel of industry and academic experts discussed the wireless spectrum’s vital contribution to the current economic recovery and a path toward future domestic growth.

After the program, panelists took audience questions.