Surrendering the PCS C-Block would encourage concentration in telecommunications, the exact opposite of Congress's desire in enacting the Telecommunications Act of 1996. This would give big business a lock on wireless spectrum, would eliminate the chance that another small business would ever again be licensed on any PCS spectrum valued by a large business, would wreak havoc with financing of current small business licensees, and would limit the quality and variety of wireless services available to consumers. Big business has more than enough wireless spectrum. In addition, the Commission is about to offer spectrum at 700 MHz, for 3G technology, in an auction ideally suited to large-footprint operations and not subject to spectrum caps on commercial mobile radio services. Large business is limping right along despite the PCS designated entity provisions.
Small businesses are crucial to the American economy.
They are a chief force for experimentation, innovation, new technology, and economic growth. Small businesses form a large proportion of the American customer base, employ most of the labor force, and create almost all new jobs. Small business also is the primary mechanism for entry to the American economy for millions of people, including minorities, women, and immigrants, who historically have had few opportunities to share the American dream. The designated entity provisions benefit consumers and benefit competition, and are succeeding. Thus, the Commission should offer these licenses to designated entities, without the availability of installment financing, in exact accordance with its well-reasoned policies and the expectations of the telecommunications and small business communities.