SIEPR Policy
paper No. 01-008
The Long and Winding Road: The FCC Paves the Path with Good Intentions
Gregory L. Rosston
December 2001
This papers shows through several case studies that the Federal Communications Commission is having a
difficult time moving toward more reliance on market forces The case studies highlight the problems with a
case-by-case approach to spectrum management rather than a wholesale change in policy. Then the paper
proposes a concrete method for moving toward much more market oriented spectrum policy. It proposes a
method of nomination and grant of additional flexibility and then a free entry system without barriers to entry.
The gains in consumer welfare from such a move could be substantial.
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