In its adoption of AWS-3 Band rules, the FCC conditioned AWS-3 license grants and operations on coordination with certain Federal incumbents, some of which are relocating. The FCC also directed the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (Bureau) to seek comment after the third year of initial AWS-3 licensing to help the FCC determine whether to extend the initial 12-year license terms and constructed deadlines by up to three years. Accordingly, the Bureau seeks comment on the following:
- Is an extension of the initial license term (and associated build-out deadlines) warranted for all AWS-3 licenses granted to date, in light of the status of Federal government relocation? Alternatively, is an extension warranted only for the earliest-issued licenses, such as those issued in 2015 and 2016?
- If a blanket extension for all AWS-3 licenses is not appropriate, is an extension warranted for AWS-3 licenses in specific geographical area(s) or spectrum band(s) (1695-1710 MHz or 1755-1780 MHz or specific blocks therein) in light of the status of Federal relocation?
- If an extension is warranted, how long should it be? Commenters should bear in mind the Commission’s previous indication that it would consider extensions up to 3 years, if appropriate.
Comments are due by June 5, 2018 and reply comments by July 5, 2018.
