WASHINGTON, D.C. (WNAX) – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation approved the 5G Spectrum Act, which would ensure mid-band spectrum is quickly made available in the market by requiring a transparent and competitive public auctioning process. The bill would require that at least 50 percent of the first $40 billion in auction revenue be reserved for the American people and that a portion of those proceeds be dedicated specifically for rural broadband build-out.

South Dakota Senator John Thune says this is a critical national issue.

Thune co-sponsored the bill along with Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi.

Thune says he hopes the technical details can be cleared up quickly.

The bill would begin the process of auctioning frequencies now used by satellite providers and prioritize 5G rollout in rural areas.