WASHINGTON D.C. - Proposals to have television broadcasters return a portion of their spectrum for re-allocation and auction for next-generation mobile broadband and data services have been met with strong reactions from broadcasters.  Is re-allocation of spectrum necessary to encourage broadband expansion?  Would compensation for broadcasters be adequate?  Will Congress go along with such a deal, or would it be blocked as contrary to "the public interest?" These and other policy issues will be discussed at "Let's Make a Deal:  Broadcasters, Mobile Broadband, and a Market in Spectrum," a Congressional Seminar hosted by The Progress & Freedom Foundation.

Just added to the agenda are David Donovan, President of the Association for Maximum Service Television, Inc., and John Hane, Counsel in the communications practice group of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP.  They will join the FCC's Blair Levin, Coleman Bazelon of The Brattle Group, and Kostas Liopiros of The Sun Fire Group to discuss if a "grand bargain" to re-allocate spectrum is wise and if it is a feasible option to free spectrum for mobile services.  Adam Thierer, President of The Progress & Freedom Foundation, will act as moderator of the event.

"Let's Make a Deal:  Broadcasters, Mobile Broadband, and a Market in Spectrum," will be held Tuesday, December 1st from 9:00am to 11:00am in the Holeman Lounge, 13th Floor, at the National Press Club, 529 14th Street, NW in Washington, DC.  Those interested in attending can register here.  Questions should be directed to Allison Bringardner at abringardner@pff.org or 202-289-8928. Media queries should be directed to Amy Smorodin asmorodin@pff.org.

The Progress & Freedom Foundation is a market-oriented think tank that studies the digital revolution and its implications for public policy. It is a 501(c)(3) research & educational organization.