Center for New Liberalism Statement on Wireless Innovation
WASHINGTON – Today, the Center for New Liberalism released the following statement from Center for New Liberalism Director Colin Mortimer:
“America’s prosperity and strength hinge on our continued ability to innovate and grow. In the sectors that will define global economic progress over the next generation – from AI and wireless technology to clean energy and biotechnology – lawmakers of both parties must embrace policies that unleash American dynamism and innovation.
“The ongoing Congressional debate over wireless spectrum policy is a key moment to show forward-looking leadership. The Center for New Liberalism supports working towards solutions that will advance America’s leadership in wireless technology, rooted in several core truths:
“Competition and Investment Drive Innovation: Restoring the FCC’s spectrum auction authority – and embracing licensing frameworks that encourage the broadest possible set of competitors to bid and compete on a level playing field – will fuel economic growth. Allowing providers of all sizes to compete fairly for spectrum licenses – and respecting their licensing rights once awarded – will attract investment, accelerate innovation, and drive down prices.
“The Best Solution to Scarcity is Innovation: Wireless demands for both commercial and government uses are only growing, but there is almost no unused “greenfield” spectrum left. Rather than treating spectrum as a zero-sum resource, U.S. policy should double down on spectrum-sharing innovations that allow commercial and government users to safely coexist in the same frequencies.
“Permissionless Innovation Fuels Progress: While restoring FCC authority to auction spectrum licenses is vital, unlicensed spectrum (which powers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and countless other "permissionless" technologies) is equally essential to American wireless leadership. An estimated 80%–90% of all smartphone traffic travels over Wi-Fi rather than cellular networks. U.S. spectrum policy must anticipate and meet this growing demand.
“This is a moment for bold, pragmatic action to ensure America leads the future of wireless innovation.”
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Media Contact: Tobin Stone
tobin@cnliberalism.org