Spectrum – US Lawmakers Push for Stronger Strategy Ahead of Global Radio Summit in China
Spectrum – A bipartisan group of American lawmakers has urged the Trump administration to present a comprehensive strategy for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, warning that decisions taken at the global gathering could significantly influence the future of wireless technologies and international spectrum policies.
Lawmakers Seek Clear US Preparation Plan
A coalition of 19 members of the US Congress has written to senior officials across multiple federal agencies, requesting a detailed update on how the United States is preparing for the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), which is scheduled to take place in Shanghai in 2027. The lawmakers stressed that the conference will play a key role in determining future international rules for spectrum use, affecting technologies such as advanced Wi-Fi, satellite communications and emerging 6G networks.
The letter was jointly led by Representatives April McClain Delaney and Jay Obernolte and addressed to the US Department of State, the Department of Commerce and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Concerns Over China’s Growing Influence
The lawmakers expressed concern that China could attempt to shape global spectrum regulations in ways that may not align with US interests. They argued that the United States should take a proactive leadership role rather than responding after policies have already been established by other countries.
According to Representative McClain Delaney, effective coordination among federal agencies, along with close cooperation with international partners, is necessary to protect American innovation and maintain the country’s competitive position in technology. She said such collaboration would also help ensure that future communication technologies continue to reflect US leadership and support consumers, businesses and communities.
Request for Coordination Details
The congressional letter was sent to Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, National Telecommunications and Information Administration chief Arielle Roth, and FCC Chairman Brendan Carr.
The lawmakers asked the agencies to explain how preparations for the conference are being managed at senior government levels. They also requested information on staffing, available resources and the process for selecting a US ambassador who would represent the country during the international negotiations.
Importance of the 6 GHz Spectrum
One of the central issues highlighted in the letter is preserving unlicensed access to the 6 GHz spectrum band, which has become increasingly important for expanding Wi-Fi capacity and supporting future digital connectivity.
The lawmakers noted that a large share of smartphone internet traffic in the United States is carried through Wi-Fi networks rather than cellular connections. They argued that maintaining sufficient unlicensed spectrum is essential to meet growing consumer demand and encourage continued technological innovation.
The group also claimed that China and several supporting stakeholders have promoted licensing approaches for portions of the upper 6 GHz band that differ from the US position. According to the lawmakers, such proposals could weaken international support for unlicensed spectrum access and reduce America’s influence in shaping the future of wireless communications.
Building International Partnerships
The lawmakers also asked the administration to outline its plans for working with allied nations before the conference. They specifically requested details about diplomatic engagement with countries such as Mexico and Brazil, noting that both nations have previously taken positions that, in some cases, aligned with China’s views on spectrum allocation.
Industry representatives welcomed the congressional initiative. NCTA – The Internet & Television Association said continued access to the full 6 GHz band remains important for the development of next-generation Wi-Fi services and will benefit both consumers and businesses.
The lawmakers have requested a written response from the administration by August 22. Among the additional signatories to the letter were Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Representatives Don Bacon, Kathy Castor, Debbie Dingell, Sarah Elfreth, Josh Gottheimer, Chrissy Houlahan and Darin LaHood. The World Radiocommunication Conference is organized by the International Telecommunication Union and serves as the global forum for setting international spectrum regulations.