The long and winding road: the FCC paves the path with good intentions

This paper shows through several case studies that the Federal Communications Commission is having a difficult time moving toward more reliance on market forces. The case studies highlight the problems with a case-by-case approach to spectrum management rather than a wholesale change in policy. The paper then proposes a concrete method for moving toward much more market-oriented spectrum policy. It proposes a method of nomination and grant of additional flexibility and then a free entry system without barriers to entry. The gains in consumer welfare from such a move could be substantial.