The FCC's auction of new VHF TV channels in New Jersey and Delaware (about which we have written many times including here) has resulted in only three qualified bidders. Despite his lack of interest in these VHF channels, the FCC seems to be looking at VHF as a way to facilitate its announced plans for the clearing of significant portions of the television spectrum for wireless broadband use. The Commission this week set the comment date - March 18, 2011 - on ways to overcome the issues that have been posed to TV stations that have remained in VHF channels after the digital transition. In the same proceeding, the FCC also seeks comments on allowing TV stations to share the same 6 MHz channel, with both stations retaining their cable and satellite must-carry rights. That same proceeding implies that we may well have seen the last new over-the-air television stations. This crucial proceeding on the future of the television band requires careful attention by all parties who may be affected by the many proposals contained in this relatively compact Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

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