Media Contact: 
Will Wiquist, (202) 418-0509
will.wiquist@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC GRANTS ADDITIONAL RURAL TRIBAL SPECTRUM LICENSES
Mid-Band Spectrum Licenses Granted to Facilitate Providing Advanced Wireless Communications Like 5G to 21 Native Communities
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WASHINGTON, February 24, 2021—The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted this week an additional 21 spectrum licenses in the 2.5 GHz band to help connect rural Tribal communities across the country.  These communities are among the least connected in America and the FCC under Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel is committed to bridging this divide.

“Tribal communities should have the same access to the opportunities of the digital age as other Americans,” said Rosenworcel.  “Tribal communities in New Mexico and Arizona are already using this part of our wireless spectrum to provide the only reliable high-speed wireless signal available in their communities.  This is an incredible model—Tribal communities across the country should have the opportunity to borrow and build on it.  Today we make that possible for more communities across the country.”

To date, the agency has granted 205 licenses in the 2.5 GHz band to help address rural Tribal connectivity needs.  These licenses provide for exclusive use of up to 117.5 megahertz of 2.5 GHz band spectrum that Tribes can use to connect their rural communities to wireless broadband and other advanced services.  FCC staff continues to review and process additional applications filed in the Rural Tribal Priority Window.

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Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov 

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).