FCC Talking D Block Re-Auction

The D Block – orphan of the FCC’s recent 700MHz auction – could soon be up for adoption again if Chairman Kevin Martin’s new proposal gets the go-ahead.

Martin wants to spiff up the spectrum’s appeal so someone will give it a home.

The D Block failed to sell earlier this year due to concerns over minimum reserves and onerous requirements. It was intended for a public-private safety partnership.

Martin now is talking about lowering the minimum reserve to $750 million (half the original amount), and splitting the spectrum into 58 separate licenses if needed.

FCC commissioners are scheduled to discuss Martin’s ideas on Sept. 25.

Sources:

InformationWeek:  FCC Mulls Another Spectrum Auction For Public Safety

Broadcasting & Cable:  FCC to Tee Up D Block

TelecomTV:  FCC Spectrum for Sale (Again!)

Ars Technica:  FCC considering new D Block auction plan

Related Articles:

Onerous Requirements, Not Collusion, Led to D Block Failure

FCC: Talk to Us About the D Block

700MHz Auction: Life on the D Block List

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