Fire Chiefs, Other Groups Object to Pai 4.9 GHz Proposal
The International Association of Fire Chiefs asked FCC Chairman Ajit Pai to withdraw an order changing how the 4.9 GHz band is used, set for a Sept. 30 vote (see 2009090048). “The public safety communications operations on the 4.9 GHz…
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band provide critical mission-support functions for local public safety agencies and will serve as an important network for future public safety technologies,” said a filing posted Tuesday in docket 07-100. “Work with the national public safety organizations to develop a proposal that protects the operations of incumbent public safety agencies.” Other groups weighed in. “Clearly believing that the 4.9 GHz band is needed for meeting mission-critical requirements, public safety convened task forces and special committees, and submitted multiple public comments with the Commission,” said APCO, the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Major Cities Chiefs Association, Major County Sheriffs of America and more: “Yet the Commission ignored public safety’s requests without explanation, issuing multiple notices of proposed rulemakings rather than making the needed regulatory changes.” The Enterprise Wireless Association welcomed the change but has concerns about the details. “What is not clear is how the FCC intends to monitor progress in that regard,” said a news release. “While market forces generally drive private enterprises to maximize the value of their assets, governmental entities may not share that motivation or the time urgency that drives the marketplace,” EWA said: “Is there an end date by which the state must confirm the identity of its State Lessor if it is not the single, current 4.9 GHz statewide licensee? Is there any end date by which the state needs to establish a spectrum leasing process?” The FCC didn't comment.