STATEMENT OF 
COMMISSIONER BRENDAN CARR
Re: Amendment of Parts 1, 2, 22, 24, 27, 90 and 95 of the Commission’s Rules to Improve Wireless 
Coverage Through the Use of Signal Boosters, WT Docket No. 10-4
The Consumer Signal Booster rules the FCC adopted in 2013 have been a success.  The record 
shows that they have helped improve wireless coverage—from rural areas to indoor locations—without 
running into interference or other issues.  As someone that lives in an English basement apartment, I can 
appreciate why many consumers want to boost their wireless signal.
Today, the Commission builds on the success of our 2013 decision.  By removing the personal 
use restriction, which no commenter opposes, we can ensure that businesses, libraries, public safety 
officials, and others can take steps to enhance their wireless coverage using off-the-shelf technology. 
While the 2013 rules allow enterprises to use industrial signal boosters, in many cases that option 
is too expensive or impractical.  Indeed, the National Wildfire Suppression Association noted that the 
personal use restriction has meant that first responders are sometimes unable to improve coverage in 
emergency situations.  Whatever your circumstances, our rules shouldn’t unnecessarily prevent you from 
improving connectivity.  So I support today’s Order.
I am also glad that the Notice portion of our decision seeks comment on opening up other 
spectrum bands for signal boosters.  A lot has changed since we adopted these rules in 2013.  Wireless 
carriers acquired 600 MHz spectrum in the incentive auction, and the transition to 5G is pushing the 
boundaries of what the Commission views as “usable” spectrum.  Given the fast pace of change in the 
wireless market, our signal booster rules should keep up with the bands that carriers are using—while 
continuing to guard against harmful interference.  
I look forward to reviewing the record as it develops, and I thank the Wireless Bureau for its 
work on this item.