Media Contact: 
Rochelle Cohen, (202) 418-1162
rochelle.cohen@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC SEEKS TO EXPAND USE OF & INVESTMENT IN 4.9 GHz BAND
  -- 
WASHINGTON, March 22, 2018—The Federal Communications Commission today proposed 
action to promote more flexible and intensive use of the 4.9 GHz band, a segment of spectrum 
designated for public safety communications. 
In a Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today, the Commission seeks 
comment on proposals, technical in nature, to encourage greater use of and investment in this 
public safety band, drawing on input from the public safety community and other potential 
users.  The Commission’s goal is to promote increased public safety use of the band and 
protect users from harmful interference while opening the spectrum to additional uses that will 
encourage a more robust market for equipment and greater innovation.  The Commission seeks 
comment on whether an appropriate sharing mechanism could encourage more opportunistic 
use of the band while ensuring the priority, integrity, and security of public safety operations.  
In 2002, the Commission designated 50 megahertz of spectrum in the 4.9 GHz band to public 
safety.  Although nearly 90,000 public safety entities are eligible for licenses in this band, there 
are fewer than 3,200 licenses in use.  With such a low level of usage, the Commission is 
concerned that the band has fallen short of its potential.  Public safety organizations and others 
have cited possible reasons, including difficulty in acquiring equipment, the cost of 
deployment, and concerns about harmful interference.  Today’s proposals are intended to 
address those concerns. 
Action by the Commission March 22, 2018 by Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
(FCC 18-33). Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, O’Rielly, Carr and Rosenworcel 
approving.  Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, O’Rielly, and Carr issuing separate 
statements.
WP Docket No. 07-100
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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. Cir. 1974).