Media Contact: Charles Meisch, (202) 418-2943 Charles.Meisch@fcc.gov For Immediate Release STATEMENT OF FCC CHAIRMAN TOM WHEELER ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF INITIAL SPECTRUM CLEARING TARGET FOR THE INCENTIVE AUCTION -- WASHINGTON, April 29, 2016 – Today the Incentive Auction Task Force and the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau announced the initial spectrum clearing target for the reverse auction. The following statement can be attributed to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler. “Robust broadcaster participation is key to the success of the Incentive Auction. Today’s announcement reflects the voluntary decision by many broadcasters that this auction truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The 126 MHz initial clearing target ensures that wireless carriers and other forward auction bidders have their chance to compete for the maximum amount of low- band ‘beachfront’ spectrum. The wireless industry has said it needs additional spectrum to meet growing customer demand and usher in the age of 5G. The broadcasters have stepped up and done their part to fulfill that demand. “I look forward to a robustly competitive auction and the vast economic and consumer benefits that await.” To learn more about the Incentive Auction, visit http://www.fcc.gov/incentiveauctions. ### Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 TTY: (888) 835-5322 Twitter: @FCC www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations 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).