Reps. Cliff Stearns, R-Fla. and Doris Matsui, D-Calif., introduced a bill Thursday that would pair the 1755-1780 MHz block of spectrum with the 2155-2180 block, which is already set for auction. The Commerce Department recently identified the 1755-1850 MHz block of spectrum, currently shared by a number of federal agencies, as ripe for sale to wireless companies. Stakeholders have further noted the 1755-1780 band is particularly suited for rapid conversion to commercial use because it could be easily integrated into existing wireless networks. The wireless industry cheered the announcement. It's unclear whether the bill can move through Congress quickly enough to be included in the next set of incentive auctions, which were recently authorized by Congress and are in the early stages of planning.
House Dems Want Hearing on Verizon-Cable Deal: House Energy and Commerce ranking member Henry Waxman and Telecom subpanel ranking member Anna Eshoo, both California Democrats, wrote (PDF) to the Committee's leadership on Thursday requesting a hearing on the proposed sale of spectrum from a group of cable companies to Verizon. The deal has drawn heavy criticism from wireless competitors and public interest groups, which argue the deal smacks of collusion. Confidential side agreements between the two sides have helped fuel speculation the deal would reduce competition in both the wireless and pay-TV markets.The cable companies responded by accusing (PDF) T-Mobile of hypocrisy for opposing the deal on competitive grounds, just months after encouraging the government to approve its failed merger with AT&T. The Justice Department and Federal Communications Commission are both reviewing the deal. Verizon has promised to auction most of its 700 MHz spectrum licenses in local markets if the transaction is approved.
Transcript: Tuesday's Senate Commerce Hearing on the Future of Online Video.