Washington, DC – Fixed wireless internet service providers are praising the Federal Communications Commission’s proposal to expand flexible use of the 6 GHz band, saying it would help hundreds of local companies reach more under-served areas, while spurring a great deal of innovation across the economy. 

Many rural Americans rely on unlicensed spectrum for their broadband connection. But that spectrum is becoming noisy and crowded, and with licensed spectrum locked up by larger providers, small fixed wireless broadband providers who want to offer uncapped high-speed service find themselves with limited ability to do so. It is critical for rural broadband that more outdoor-friendly unlicensed spectrum be made available. Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (“WISPA”) is pleased to support the Commission’s efforts to make available 1200 megahertz of spectrum in the 6 GHz band for unlicensed use.

In comments filed today at the FCC, WISPA says the agency should dismiss a petition by the auto industry that seeks to assign the 5905-5925 MHz spectrum band exclusively for cellular vehicle-to-everything (“C-V2X”) service.

Washington, DC – The following statement may be attributed to Claude Aiken, president of the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (www.WISPA.org), regarding oral arguments being heard today in the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on the Federal Communications Commission’s “Restoring Internet Freedom” order.  

The Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (“WISPA”) hereby comments in response to the Notice and Request for Comments (“RFC”) in the above-captioned proceeding regarding developing a comprehensive, long-term national spectrum strategy.¹

A common founding story among WISPA members is their frustration about a lack of broadband in their communities and the determination to do something about it. Jim Bouse in Brazos County, TX is no different.

Washington, DC – The Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (WISPA) welcomes the news that the U.S. Senate voted last night to reconfirm Federal Communications Commission member Brendan Carr for a second term and to confirm Geoffrey Starks as a new commissioner.

“We appreciate that Commissioner Carr has taken an interest in fixed wireless broadband, including visits to several WISPs and WISP-enabled rural businesses,” said WISPA President Claude Aiken. “He understands the crucial role our members are playing in closing the digital divide, and the need for better infrastructure, spectrum, and subsidy policies to help us do so.”

"WISPA also welcomes the elevation of Geoffrey Starks, a longtime public servant at the FCC and the Department of Justice, and a friend of mine,” said Aiken. “Geoffrey brings a strong intellect, an open mind, and a keen sympathy for the interests of consumers.” 

“We look forward to working with Commissioners Carr and Starks and the entire FCC to adopt smart, balanced policies that will enable fixed wireless broadband operators to continue growing and serving more rural consumers, while promoting competition and innovation for consumers everywhere," Aiken said. 

Media Inquiries:                                                             

Breyana Franklin, mailto:breyana@dalecurtiscommunications.com, 301-346-0056

About WISPA

WISPA is a membership-driven trade association that promotes the development and advancement of the fixed wireless Internet service provider industry. WISPA has over 800 members that support WISPA’s advocacy, education and other collaborative industry initiatives.

For more information, visit www.wispa.org.

An overview of significant federal and state programs providing grants, loans, and subsidies for fixed and mobile broadband, including federal/state universal service funds and US Department of Agriculture programs. Attendees will gain insight into available sources of funds to assist in building a viable business plan for broadband in rural unserved and underserved areas.