Efficient Spectrum Use Will Be 'Sine Qua Non' forrnFCC Decision on Foreign Investments Over Cap, Says Wheeler

摘要

Efficient use of spectrum will be an important factor in the FCC's consideration of applications forrnforeign ownership of broadcasters above the 25 percent cap, said FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler shortlyrnbefore casting his first-ever vote at Thursday’s FCC meeting. The declaratory ruling, which explicitlyrnsays the FCC will consider applications for foreign investments in broadcasters over the cap on a case-bycasernbasis, was unanimously approved. Though Wheeler later said foreign investment applicants shouldrnconsider their applications in the context of all of the commission’s larger policy goals, he gave specialrnemphasis to spectrum use, saying it would be the “sine qua non” in considering them.