Issue: Lower 900 MHz Band

The Lower 900 MHz Band of spectrum is used by millions of part 15 devices including alarm, electronic access and security camera technologies among other security and life safety equipment essential for protecting homes, small businesses and critical infrastructure. We support the protection of unlicensed device use in this band so that the technologies used to protect public safety and American families can continue to operate in a competitive environment that drives growth and innovation.

Requested Action:

Please encourage the Federal Communications Commission to dismiss a petition that seeks to roll back a non-interference requirement in the Lower 900 MHz Band in order to restructure it for the implementation of a backup GPS service, although other non-interfering alternatives exist. If this petition for rulemaking is granted or the FCC takes any positive action in the requested reconfiguration of this band, there could be devastating consequences to the operating environment for millions of devices that are critical for the public safety and protection of American life.

Articles and Resources

SIA Blogs:

• SIA Statement on FCC Proceeding on GPS Alternatives (March 27, 2025)
• SIA Leads Letter to Congress Urging Protection of Security Devices Under Spectrum Proposal (Oct. 29, 2024)
• SIA Urges FCC to Protect Security Devices Under Spectrum Proposal (Sept 9, 2024)

SIA Op-Ed:

• GPS World: Flawed Spectrum Proposal Would Cause Disruption and Risks to Public Safety (April 7, 2025)

Other Industry Opposition:

• IBTTA: Protect the 900 MHz Band (March 17, 2025)
• EFF: NextNav's Callous Land-Grab to Privatize 900 MHz (Sept. 13, 2024)
• RFID Journal: Hundreds Weigh In on FCC NextNav Petition for 900 MHz Band Change (Sept. 6, 2024)
• Broadband Breakfast: L.A. Transit Agency Fears Revenue Hit if FCC Approves Spectrum Plan (Sept. 3, 2024)