Carr Grilled on Broadcasting, Also Testifies on Spectrum and Universal Service
The three-hour hearing was largely focused on broadcast regulation and accusations the agency was pressuring media companies critical of the White House.
The three-hour hearing was largely focused on broadcast regulation and accusations the agency was pressuring media companies critical of the White House.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2026 – The Federal Communications Commission was urged Wednesday to require wireless carriers bidding in its upcoming spectrum auction to pay for airplane retrofits that will be required to avoid interference.
The Federal Aviation Administration has estimated those will cost about $4.5 billion.
Rep. Jay Obernolte, R-Calif., who has a pilot’s license, made the request as top agency officials testified for nearly three-and-a-half hours Wednesday during a House oversight hearing.
Cable broadband leader wants WRC-27 delegates to have ‘reliable encrypted Wi-Fi connectivity’ and ‘appropriate privacy safeguards in meeting spaces and lodgings.’
Panelists also discuss the unsustainable funding of the USF and the making of Section 230.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the work the Telecom Act started is not yet done.
The international spectrum management conference will focus on satellite issues.
Member discussion