Consumer Groups and CTIA Differ on Higher Power Levels for CBRS Spectrum

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2024 – Wireless carriers last week floated changes like increasing power levels for the Citizens Broadband Radio Service. Consumer groups and smaller providers were not happy.

The Federal Communications Commission manages sharing in the CBRS band with a tiered licensing system. Military incumbents get first priority, followed by those who purchased priority licenses. They both get protected from interference by anyone using the spectrum for free on a general access basis. 

The agency recently shrunk the protection areas around Navy bases – where the military can kick off commercial users – expanding the number of locations that could receive uninterrupted CBRS coverage. Commissioners sought comment on other rule changes, including an open ended inquiry into power levels, in August.