Government and Wireless: A Productive Partnership

Partnership.  Teamwork.  Collaboration.  These words don't often describe the relationship between government and industry.  Things can, and should be different. 

Our interests are the same:  providing the best value for American consumers. At the same time, the enormous economic impact of American industry generally, and the wireless industry specifically, is unmistakable and a vitally important consideration in the legislative process. According to a recent study, by 2016, the economic benefit generated by wireless will be upwards of $426 billion per year - that's more than the automotive and pharmaceutical industries combined. 

The national benefits of wireless aren't just economic - it's the service we provide as well.  Beyond wireless only households climbing - about 16% as of December 2007 - Americans are increasingly turning to wireless as their broadband internet connection.  According to a recent FCC report, wireless now comprises about 30% of total broadband connections in the US, and 70% of new broadband additions between June 2006 and June 2007 were wireless.  In these days of so much bad economic news, it ought to be refreshing to see such a positive story, and one of which both government and industry should be proud.   

And wireless is more than just a connection; it's a major employer as well.  Third-party research indicates that 3.6 million jobs are dependent on the US telecommunications industry - that's an incredible number, and one that we must all be conscious of when making decisions that affect the industry.  

So how do we keep the ball rolling? Well, we do it--together. We talk about our challenges, and work together to find reasonable and rational solutions. For example, just last week CTIA hosted a 'refresher course' on an FCC regulation regarding tower siting. We brought in government, tribal, and industry leaders to talk about the rules and regs with attendees, with the primary goal of ensuring the most efficient and smooth process for approving new towers. New towers equals better coverage. Better coverage equals better and new services. And all of it equals more satisfied and best-served consumers.   

Yes, we share a common interest with policymakers. Maybe we don't always agree on the means to that end, but we're committed to keeping the lines of communication open.   The numbers reveal an inarguable fact- Americans love their wireless service and how it's enriching their lives. Government and industry are both dedicated to making that an even better value proposition, and I know the constant exchange of ideas, combined with a willingness to listen and work together, will continue to produce fantastic results for all of us.