Should the Federal Government Be in the 5G Business?

The Department of Defense (DoD) recently issued a Request for Information about the possibility of constructing a new national 5G network on 450 MHz of mid-band spectrum presently assigned to the Department. Access to this spectrum by commercial wireless services could be granted when it is not needed for national security requirements through a dynamic spectrum-sharing arrangement. Many members of Congress from both sides of the aisle, as well as members of the Federal Communications Commission, have expressed concern about DoD’s intentions. Recent press reports assert that several high-ranking officials in the White House are pushing the idea despite President Trump’s public opposition to such a plan. Should the DoD proceed with constructing its own network? Should the 450 MHz of mid-band spectrum be auctioned to private providers? Should the Department instead rely on the network services of commercial wireless providers? Please join us for a teleforum with industry experts to discuss the policy and economic implications.Featuring:-- Jon Adame, General Counsel, Office of Sen. Marsha Blackburn-- Kelly Cole, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, CTIA-- George S. Ford, Chief Economist, Phoenix Center for Advanced Legal & Economic Public Policy Studies-- Moderator: Lawrence J. Spiwak, President, Phoenix Center for Advanced Legal & Economic Public Policy Studies; member of the Federalist Society’s Telecommunications & Electronic Media Practice Group Executive Committee