Media Access Project (MAP) commends Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski for the bold spectrum policy initiatives to be included in the National Broadband Plan, as previewed in his speech today at the New America Foundation.

“Chairman Genachowski was on the mark, both in characterizing the FCC’s spectrum proposals as dramatic steps, and in acknowledging that there is much work to be done before we can take those steps,” said Matt Wood, MAP’s Associate Director, and a participant on a panel discussion following the Chairman’s address. “We are glad to see that a commitment to more unlicensed and opportunistic spectrum use, for which MAP and the public interest community have long advocated, remains an important part of the FCC’s strategy to address the nation’s bandwidth needs.

“Just as important as initiatives to free more spectrum for efficient use and to spur wireless broadband deployment, however, are today’s announcements regarding support for adoption and reforms to the Universal Service Fund. The Commission’s ultimate goal in lowering barriers to entry and expanding wireless broadband capacity must be growth in adoption levels nationwide, but especially in historically disadvantaged communities and geographic regions. The FCC must aim squarely in its plan at closing digital divides – including the mobile divide that the Chairman referenced in his speech – to ensure that all Americans have meaningful access to affordable wireless and wireline broadband services.”

MAP is a non-profit, public interest law firm dedicated to promoting the public’s First Amendment right to access a diverse marketplace of ideas in mass media. For over 37 years, MAP has promoted the public interest before the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Trade Commission, and the U.S. Courts, advocating for an open and diverse telecommunications system that protects the free flow of information, promotes universal and equitable access to communications and technology services, and encourages vibrant public discourse on critical issues facing our society.