C!rnugre1111 nf tI,e Nuite~ §tate11 1llllasqiugton, IDQt 20515 148 March 1, 2018 The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 12'11 Street SW ' Washington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Pai: As co-chairs of the Congressional Spectrum Caucus, we are pleased that the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) has initiated a proceeding to examine so-called "mid-band" spectrum for flexible broadband use and its potential designation for wireless broadband services. Due to the pa1ticular propagation characteristics of mid-band spectrum, other countries have already begun to focus on its use for next generation wireless services. Making spectrum available will be critical to maintaining U.S. leadership in bringing fifth generation wireless, or "5G," to our constituents. We understand that some of the spectrum the Commission is evaluating is the 3.7-4.2 GHz band, which is currently used primarily by satellite companies to transmit television programming and network services to earth stations around the country. The ability of wireless companies to use that spectrum - as well as protect incumbent operators - will depend on exactly how many earth stations exist, where they are located, and how much of the spectrum is currently being used. In turn, a complete record of those earth stations will allow the Commission to determine how this mid-band spectrum can be made available for new terrestrial use. As the Commission moves forward with this proceeding, we therefore believe the Commission should confirm exactly how many earth stations are in operation, their location, and the specific spectrum in use at each location. You may wish to provide users of these eaith stations wit.h an oppo1tunity to confirm the details of their operations. A good understanding of the spectrum landscape at 3.7-4.2 GHz wi ll allow the Commission to accurately assess the use of the spectrum for wireless broadband. Thank you for your consideration. We respectfully request a timely reply regarding this important matter, and we look fo1ward to continuing to work together with the Commission to advance federal spectrum efforts that keep pace with growing demand. Sincerely, ~t1~~ !?#!/~ Doris Matsui Brett Guthrie Member of Congress Member of Congress cc: Hon. Mignon Clyburn Hon. Michael O'Rielly Hon. Brendan Carr Hon. Jessica Rosenworcel PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER