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FCC Approves 440-MHz Super Band, Triggers Billion-Dollar Auction

7/24/2026

46 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

FCC Clears Upper-C

The FCC approved Part 100, replacing Part 25, and cleared 160 MHz of Upper C-band for auction by July 2027.
The auction will issue 3,248 flexible-use licenses, enable service in top-75 markets by Dec 2030, and raise tens of billions for the Treasury.
Commissioner Olivia Trusty called the 440-MHz “super band” created by the cleared Upper C-band and Lower C-band a milestone, while Commissioner Anna Gomez dissented, urging a tribal licensing window.

Summary

Babin & Lofgren Oppose FCC

The FCC approved the order after Rep. Brian Babin (R-Tex.) and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) requested a vote postponement.
Babin and Lofgren wrote to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, saying the order forces operators to take steps, Congress never granted, and warning they will use tools if the FCC does not engage in dialogue.
The FCC issued a notice for comment on links, which the House committee says needs congressional review.

History

Historical Context

The 1934 Communications Act created the FCC to regulate telephone and radio. President Bill Clinton signed the 1996 Telecommunications Act on February 8, 1996, authorizing the first major spectrum auctions; the 1997 PCS auction sold 39 MHz and raised $13.5 billion. Today the FCC is clearing 160 MHz of Upper C-band for a 3,248-license auction, drawing oversight from Rep. Brian Babin and Rep. Zoe Lofgren.

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FCC Clears Upper-C

The FCC approved Part 100, replacing Part 25, and cleared 160 MHz of Upper C-band for auction by July 2027.
The auction will issue 3,248 flexible-use licenses, enable service in top-75 markets by Dec 2030, and raise tens of billions for the Treasury.
Commissioner Olivia Trusty called the 440-MHz “super band” created by the cleared Upper C-band and Lower C-band a milestone, while Commissioner Anna Gomez dissented, urging a tribal licensing window.

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