Coronavirus: FCC Grants Verizon Temporary Spectrum

In an effort to help keep up with increased demand and strain on their network, the FCC has temporarily granted Verizon additional spectrum.

As increasing numbers of companies send workers home, individuals are relying on their wireless connections more than ever, both for telecommuting and everyday life. To help wireless companies keep up with demand, the FCC has already granted additional spectrum to T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular.

“Wireless services are a vital part of connectivity, and this has never been truer than during this crisis, when so many people are turning to telework, remote learning, and telehealth options,” said Chairman Pai. “I want to thank Northstar and SNR for their willingness to allow this use of the spectrum for which they hold licenses. I’m also grateful to Verizon for seeking out ways to meet increased consumer demand. And I want to give a special thanks to our partners at the Department of Defense and NTIA for their efforts in working with us to ensure that this emergency authority could be granted quickly.”

This is likely not the last time the FCC will need to help carriers deal with the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.