WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The following quote can be attributed to NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith in response to FCC Chairman Genachowski's broadband speech before the Mobile Future Forum today:
"NAB appreciates Chairman Genachowski's acknowledgment that hundreds of broadcasters are developing new and creative business models on multiple platforms to serve millions of viewers.
"We're also encouraged by his repeated promise that reclamation of additional TV spectrum will be entirely voluntary, and that broadcasters who don't 'volunteer' won't be forced into inferior bands. As we've said from the outset, broadcasters will work with policymakers to address the nation's spectrum capacity challenges. The undeniable fact is this: broadcasting's 'one-to-many' transmission system for delivering video to the masses can help solve any spectrum capacity shortages. Compared to the 'one-to-one' transmission scheme of cellphone providers, broadcasters are by far the most efficient users of spectrum.
"We are hopeful that going forward, the FCC undertakes a thoughtful process that in no way jeopardizes the digital promise that was made to 43 million Americans who rely exclusively on hyper-local news, entertainment, foreign language and religious programming offered by free and local broadcasters.
"Finally, we would respectfully ask for an independent study to confirm Chairman Genachowski's assurances that spectrum suitable for wireless broadband is not lying fallow, given recent verbatim remarks to the contrary from current FCC licensees."
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.
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