FCC forms task force for radio spectrum

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Michael K. Powell has announced the formation of a Spectrum Policy Task Force to assist the agency in identifying and evaluating changes in spectrum policy that will increase the public benefits derived from the use of radio spectrum.

Paul Kolodzy, senior spectrum policy advisor in the Office of Engineering and Technology, will head the cross-bureau and multi-disciplinary task force, according to an FCC announcement.

"The government has an almost impossible task trying to keep pace with the ever-increasing demand for spectrum and continuing advances in wireless technology and applications," Powell said. "In this fast-moving world, the commission cannot rely on outmoded procedures and policies. We must establish new ways to support innovation and the efficient, flexible use of spectrum. While the Spectrum Policy Task Force has a difficult task ahead of it, I am pleased that it is making significant progress and that it is moving forward with a work plan."

The Spectrum Policy Task Force will be comprised of senior staff from several Commission Bureaus and Offices, including attorneys, engineers and economists. The deputy director of the Task Force is Lauren M. Van Wazer, special counsel to the chief, Office of Engineering and Technology. Michael Marcus, associate chief for technology, Office of Engineering and Technology, will serve as senior technical advisor and Maureen C. McLaughlin, senior counsel, Office of General Counsel, will serve as special counsel to the task force.

The task force will receive its guidance from a steering committee composed of the bureau/office chiefs to whom its members report and chaired by the senior spectrum policy advisor. For additional information on the Spectrum Policy Task Force, visit the Web site at www.fcc.gov/SPTF.