Media Contact: 
Evan Swarztrauber, (202) 418-2261
Evan.Swarztrauber@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

Economists: Carr’s 5G Order Saves $2B, Stimulates $2.4B Investment
1,800,000 More Families To Get Next-Gen Coverage in Rural and Suburban America

WASHINGTON, September 5, 2018—A new economic analysis submitted to the FCC today shows that Commissioner Brendan Carr’s 5G order will save $2 billion in unnecessary costs and stimulate an additional $2.4 billion in infrastructure investment.  The additional small cells that will be built due to the order will cover 1.8 million more homes and businesses, with 97% of that next-gen coverage concentrated in rural and suburban communities, according to the study.
Carr’s 5G order, to be voted on at the Commission’s September 26 meeting, builds off of small cell reform legislation enacted in 20 states.  The order cuts exorbitant regulatory fees and expedites the approval process for small cells, while reaffirming local governments’ legitimate role in siting decisions, including aesthetic reviews.  Small cells are the physical building blocks of 5G, the next generation of wireless service that promises speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G and enables new technologies such as IoT devices and autonomous vehicles.
“Smart infrastructure policy is key to bridging the digital divide,” Carr said.  “By building on the grassroots reforms championed by many state and local leaders, this 5G order will mean more broadband for more Americans, particularly in rural communities.  Winning the race to 5G means giving every American—regardless of where they live—a fair shot at next-gen connectivity.”
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Office of Commissioner Brendan Carr: (202) 418-2200
ASL Videophone: (844) 432-2275
TTY: (888) 835-5322
Twitter: @BrendanCarrFCC
www.fcc.gov/about/leadership/brendan-carr

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).