EWA Endorses Request for DTV Station Interference Resolution

August 28, 2020

The Enterprise Wireless Alliance (EWA) endorses today’s Land Mobile Communications Council (LMCC) filing that requests a proactive response from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to actively engage in the resolution of instances of harmful interference to private land mobile radio (PLMR) communications systems from newly commissioned digital television (DTV) stations. The interference is costing hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue, affects business productivity, and is risking the safety of employees and the public in certain instances. DTV stations were moved to new allotments as a result of “TV Repacking” that followed the broadcast spectrum incentive auction. In some of the interference cases documented by the LMCC, FCC rules clearly stipulate that the television broadcaster is responsible for any harmful interference and must take remedial action as have several TV stations. In some cases, it is a matter of simply and expeditiously enforcing secondary use rules. However, in other cases, the rules are not as clear about how to resolve the interference as the 30-plus-year-old separation requirements are inadequate for today’s spectral environment. The LMCC has requested a meeting with the FCC to elevate the agency’s awareness of this detrimental interference and to collaboratively identify appropriate resolution measures.

On this matter, EWA President Mark Crosby made the following statement:

“Some EWA members are so frustrated that they wonder if the reaction of a few TV stations might be ‘There is nothing we can do; the environment is the root cause; we didn’t want to move in the first place; or, maybe the PLMR incumbents will go away in time and leave us alone.’ Of course, these are unacceptable responses as the PLMR industry is as vital to the well-being of this country as are broadcasters, even if not as well known. The LMCC seeks only a fair hearing and the FCC’s active support towards a resolution. That should not be wishful thinking. EWA remains optimistic.”   

About EWA

The Enterprise Wireless Alliance is the leading national trade association and advocate for business enterprises, private carrier operators, equipment manufacturers, and service providers that support the private wireless industry. A frequency advisory committee certified by the Federal Communications Commission, EWA provides its members and clients with consulting services, frequency coordination, license preparation, spectrum management and associated business intelligence services. EWA is the market leader in Business/Industrial Land Transportation frequency coordination services and assists a significant percentage of public safety customers with their spectrum requirements. Learn more at www.enterprisewireless.org.