WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to proposed rules by the FCC to permit unlicensed devices to operate in the 6 GHz band currently used by radio and TV broadcasters for electronic newsgathering, the following statement can be attributed to NAB Executive Vice President of Communications Dennis Wharton:
"The last few weeks of lifeline coronavirus coverage by local TV stations have made crystal clear the value of the 6 GHz band to broadcasters and the viewers we serve. If broadcasters are to continue providing news coverage that is trusted in a crisis, we need spectrum to provide that service.
"We have previously witnessed the negative impact Wi-Fi operations have caused to spectrum broadcasters use to cover breaking news. Opening the entire 6 GHz band to unlicensed use without strong safeguards risks locking the FCC into a mistake it cannot correct. We look forward to engaging with the FCC to discuss potential solutions, including appropriate power levels, methods for restricting indoor-only operations, and other options to protect broadcaster uses.”
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