@ NAB: Genachowski politely chastizes NAB on voluntary spectrum auctions

LAS VEGAS – Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski used his time before broadcasters to appeal to them about the benefits of voluntary spectrum auctions, the reality of today’s spectrum landscape and to quietly chastise his host, the National Association of Broadcasters, for “distracting” people by presenting what he believes are false arguments.
During a “Breakfast with the Chairman” special address this morning at the 2011 NAB Show, Genachowski reiterated his reasoning for a voluntary spectrum auction that would incent broadcasters to return unused spectrum to the FCC, which would then reauction that spectrum and give broadcasters a piece of the revenue.
People spend more time in front of computer screens rather than TV screens, Genachowski told the TV and radio broadcasters. Tablets have become wildly popular in a short period of time and their adoption could lead to two-way video conferencing for mass-market customers and businesses. “We are living in a multi-platform world.”
While some broadcast companies are embracing changes, others are not, Genachowski said. Many TV stations have become the No. 1 source for local news, while others do not even offer local news.
The single most important thing that can be done to get more spectrum for mobile broadband, however, is voluntary spectrum auctions, the FCC chair said, adding that 112 economists supported the idea in a recent letter to the president. Genachowski said voluntary spectrum auctions are a “win” for broadcasters as well, a comment some broadcasters answered with muttered disagreement.
Genachowski went on to say he was disappointed that some discussions around spectrum – namely the charges that some companies are hoarding spectrum and that more research should be done to see if there is a spectrum crisis (two statements from the NAB) – are distracting to the debate. “We don’t have a decade to wait.”
Voluntary spectrum auctions will not stop innovations around mobile TV, Genashowski said, nor will they hurt rural broadcasters. Broadcasters may have to move off their spectrum to new spectrum as part of a voluntary spectrum auction, Genachowski said, but those that do will be fairly compensated.
Finally, Genachowsi promised broadcasters he would be straight-forward, fair and focused on problem solving as the initiative advances.