The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) has issued a public notice announcing a temporary freeze on the acceptance and processing of applications for new or expanded Part 90 Radiolocation Service operations in the 3100-3550 MHz frequency band. The purpose of the freeze is to preserve the current service landscape in the 3100-3550 MHz band so that the FCC, Secretary of Commerce, and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) can consider alternative uses for the band, as mandated by the Making Opportunities for Broadband Investment and Limiting Excessive and Needless Obstacles to Wireless (MOBILE NOW) Act.
The freeze is effective immediately and until further notice. During the freeze, WTB will not accept or process: (1) applications for new licenses; (2) applications that seek to modify existing licenses by adding or changing frequencies or locations; (3) applications that seek to modify existing licenses by changing technical parameters in a manner that expands the station’s spectral or geographic footprint; and (4) any other application that could increase the degree to which the 3100-3550 MHz band currently is licensed. The freeze does not, however, apply to certain applications that would not materially increase spectral congestion in the band, such as applications to renew existing licenses without modification or that modify existing licenses by deleting frequencies or locations.
According to WTB, any affected applications that were pending at the time of the public notice’s release will not be processed further until the FCC decides how to proceed with this frequency band.
