Federal Register #2026-06239

FCC Expands Broadband Licensing Options in 900 MHz Band

This FCC final rule expands broadband licensing options in the 896-901/935-940 MHz band, impacting spectrum access for utilities, railroads, and critical infrastructure sectors. - Government Buyer: - Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - OEMs and Vendors Mentioned: - Anterix - Edison Electric Institute (EEI) - Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) - San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) - Railroad industry stakeholders and equipment manufacturers - Products/Services Requested: - No specific products or services are being procured; this is a regulatory action affecting spectrum licensing - Key Details: - Expands broadband access across the entire 10 MHz of the 896-901/935-940 MHz band - Introduces three licensing options: narrowband, paired 3/3 MHz broadband, and paired 5/5 MHz broadband licenses - Transition to 5/5 MHz broadband licenses is voluntary and market-driven - Applicants must negotiate with incumbent licensees and provide protections for adjacent bands - Notable requirements include eligibility certification, transition plans, anti-windfall provisions, and a 15-year license term - Aims to improve spectrum efficiency and support advanced telecommunications needs for critical infrastructure

Description

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a final rule expanding broadband access across the entire 10 MHz of the 896-901/935-940 MHz band. The rule introduces three licensing options: narrowband licenses, paired 3/3 MHz broadband licenses, and paired 5/5 MHz broadband licenses. The transition to 5/5 broadband licenses will be voluntary and market-driven, with protections for incumbent licensees and adjacent bands. The rule aims to improve spectrum efficiency and support advanced telecommunications needs for utilities, railroads, and critical infrastructure sectors.

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