S. 794: To require the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to audit Federal spectrum.

This bill aims to conduct a comprehensive audit of the electromagnetic spectrum used by federal entities in the United States. The bill outlines the following key provisions:

Federal Spectrum Audit

Within 18 months after the bill is enacted, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information is required to:

• Perform an audit of the electromagnetic spectrum that is assigned to federal entities.
• Consult with the heads of each federal entity during this audit process.
• Submit a report to Congress with the findings of this audit.

Contents of the Report

The report generated from the audit must include specific information about the spectrum allocated to federal entities, including:

• The specific bands of spectrum each federal entity is using.
• A description of the purposes for which these spectrum bands are used, along with the extent of usage for each purpose.
• The state or geographic area where these spectrum bands are assigned.
• Whether a band is exclusively used by a federal entity or shared with other federal or non-federal entities.
• Any portions of the spectrum that are not currently being utilized by the federal entity.

Report Formatting and Security

The report must be submitted in an unclassified format but may include a classified annex if necessary, thereby balancing transparency with national security needs.

Coordination with Other Audits

The Assistant Secretary is mandated to work with the Secretary of Transportation to ensure that this audit does not overlap with other spectrum audits conducted under existing laws, specifically the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Overall Purpose

The overarching goal of this bill is to assess the usage of federally allocated spectrum to potentially identify underutilized resources, enhance management of radio frequencies, and ensure efficient use of this valuable public resource.

Relevant Companies

• AMT (American Tower Corporation) - This company, which provides telecommunications infrastructure, may experience changes in access to spectrum or business conditions based on the results of the federal spectrum audit.
• VZ (Verizon Communications Inc.) - As a major telecommunications provider, Verizon could be impacted by reallocations or availability of spectrum following the audit.
• T (AT&T Inc.) - Similar to Verizon, any changes in federal spectrum allocation could influence AT&T's service offerings and operational logistics.
• CHTR (Charter Communications, Inc.) - This cable and telecommunications company might be affected by changes in federal spectrum regulations and availability.