~.#.G'..t-
~,e. ..d!7J~
-G"4~'"
January 19, 2011
The Honorable Julius Genachowski, Chairman
Federal Communications Commission
445 12'h Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20554
Dear Chairman Genachowski,
It is my understanding.that the Commission is currently reviewing a waiver request by LightSquared
L.L.C. which would allow the company to build a nationwide terrestrial-based, wireless broadband
network. While I applaud the Commission's efforts to expand the deployment of wireless broadband,
it should not be done at the expense of national and homeland security, public safety and the broader
economy.
The concerns that have been raised are serious ones, regarding the pro'posal's potential to cause
harmful interference to Global Positioning System (GPS) users in urban areas around the country.
This position was supported by NTIA Administrator Lawrence Strickling, who indicated in a letter
to you last week that several agencies including the De:eartments of Defense, Transportation and
Homeland Security are concerned about the potential lor interference.
Today, millions of users depend on GPS. GPS technology can be found everywhere from cell
phones and personal navigation devices, to military operations, aviation, and networks l?roviding
earthquake monitoring, emergency services, and automated highway construction. With such broad
use, any proposal, which in eHect reallocates spectrum, should be done cautiously and with a full
public record from all affected stakeholders.
Before proceeding with further action on LightSquared's waiver request, I implore the Commission
to expeditiously conduct a technical analysis and resolve any interference concerns. Thank you in
advance for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your timely response.
Most gratefully,
C=-~AdG:c.l.~-~------------.
Anna/G. Eshoo
~..M'en,'berof Congress
cc: Commissioner Michael J. Copps
Commissioner Robert M. McDowell
Commissioner Mignon Clyburn
Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker