50 MHz More Spectrum for 5G and Other Uses

The Federal Communications Commission adopted rules permitting expanded use of 50 megahertz of mid-band spectrum in the 4.9 GHz (4940-4990 MHz) band that is currently underused by state entities.

Under the new rules, states are allowed to lease this spectrum to third parties to boost wireless broadband, improve critical infrastructure monitoring, and facilitate public safety use cases. 

“In the 18 years since the FCC designated the 4.9 GHz band for public safety use, only about 3.5 percent of all potential licensees have taken advantage of this spectrum opportunity, and this spectrum remains largely unused outside major metropolitan areas,” the FCC says. 

The rules will empower eligible states to put 4.9 GHz band spectrum to its highest and best use and to allow new partnerships with electric utilities, FirstNet, and commercial operators to increase usage of this spectrum, while protecting existing public safety operations, the FCC says. 

The move is yet another example of more-flexible licensing regimes that encourage spectrum sharing.