Looking back at 2014 regulatory issues, ahead to 2015 challenges
The telecommunications industry has kept the federal government plenty busy over the past year with a pair of spectrum auctions, possible merger and acquisition activity and the connection to the net neutrality debate.
While 2014 provided a heavy workload for the Federal Communications Commission, 2015 and beyond look at least as challenging. RCR Wireless News spoke with Paul Margie, a partner at Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis, to garner insight into how government regulators tackled past challenges and what they face moving forward. In the past, Margie has served at senior positions at the FCC and on Capitol Hill, including as legal adviser to FCC Commissioner Michael Copps, where he advised the commissioner on wireless, satellite, spectrum and international issues.
Margie explained that while it appears the divide between the sides on net neutrality is vast, it’s actually much closer than it was 10 years ago and that he sees a decision on the topic coming down during the current administration. For the mobile industry this could become a tricky topic as recent comments from FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler and President Barack Obama seem to hint at any government decision on net neutrality being enacted regardless of connection method.
Also of significant interest to the mobile communications space is the FCC’s plans to conduct the 600 MHz incentive auction, which was recently pushed to a 2016 date. With the record-smashing proceeds being generated by the ongoing Auction 97 process, it has become increasingly apparent the need mobile operators are placing on spectrum assets.
Margie explained that he was not surprised by the FCC pushing off the 600 MHz incentive auction due to the complex nature of the forward- and reverse-auction process, as well as the current legal battle the FCC is facing from the National Association of Broadcasters. With this auction expected to become a template for future auction proceedings, Margie noted, it’s important that the FCC get the process correct in order to avoid future challenges.
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