NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418-0500 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov TTY: 1-888-835-5322 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: February 16, 2012 Neil Grace, 202-418-0506 Email: neil.grace@fcc.gov STATEMENT FROM FCC CHAIRMAN JULIUS GENACHOWSKI ON INCENTIVE AUCTION LEGISLATION “Congress is poised to take an important step in making the U.S. the first country in the world to adopt the incentive auctions concept, an innovative, market-based approach to unleash more spectrum for mobile broadband. “I’m pleased that Congress has recognized the vital importance of freeing up more spectrum for mobile broadband, both licensed and unlicensed, although the legislation could limit the FCC’s ability to maximize the amount and benefits of recovered spectrum. “Nearly two years ago, the FCC’s National Broadband Plan identified the spectrum crunch as a threat to America’s mobile leadership, and proposed incentive auctions as a key strategy to help meet this challenge. “Our goals have included developing fair, effective mechanisms for providing all carriers an opportunity to obtain spectrum, promoting world-leading innovation, free-market competition, and mobile broadband access for consumers throughout the country. The FCC will continue to study the legislation, and if adopted, we look forward to working with Congress and all stakeholders to implement this important grant of authority. “The legislation also includes key provisions on public safety, laying the groundwork for a much-needed nationwide public safety broadband network, and advancing the deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1.” -FCC-