FCC votes to reallocate part of 5.9 GHz band to WiFi

Commission members voted unanimously today

The FCC voted unanimously today to allocate a portion of the 5.9 GHz band to a 45 MHz sub-band that supports unlicensed uses like WiFi. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and commissioners Michael O'Rielly, Brendan Carr, Jessica Rosenworcel, and Geoffrey Starks all were in favor of the redistribution during an open meeting at the group’s headquarters in Washington, D.C.

According to an FCC press release, the commission “voted to take a fresh and comprehensive look at the 5.9 GHz (5.850-5.925 GHz) band, proposing rule changes to ensure that this spectrum supports its highest and best use for the American people.”

The 5.9 GHz band proposal was first announced by Pai on Nov. 20 during a meeting with Citizens Against Government Waste, New America’s Open Technology Institute, and WifiForward.

Since the FCC’s announcement, numerous groups, including the Department of Defense (DOD), the Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America), and ATSSA have spoken out against passing the proposal.