Most Americans don't know it, but radio spectrum has become an indispensable tool in our daily lives. Spectrum is the invisible link between our smart phones, tablets, laptops, fitbits, and other mobile devices to the Internet. It carries the video, voice, text and rich media that has transformed the world around us.
Recognizing this reality, Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) have formed a new Spectrum Caucus to focus attention in Congress and around the country about the vital need for more spectrum for broadband. No doubt about it, radio spectrum is a hot topic on Capitol Hill. Here's why:
By no means does this represent the universe of spectrum issues. Growth in Machine to Machine uses and the Internet of Everything represent an emerging category of spectrum uses. The recently released Department of Defense Spectrum Strategy demonstrates that our Defense spectrum needs are growing and changing also.
Every member of Congress uses radio spectrum every day, whenever they reach for a smartphone or use Wi-Fi. As do all their constituents. Everyone needs to think about how we can be better stewards of our radio spectrum. So let me thank Representatives Matsui and Guthrie for forming this new Caucus and bringing focus to this critical matter.