Broadcasters are not the only ones who rely on wireless microphones in the normal course of business, but they are certainly one of them, and to that end, the NAB has come out in support of Bobby Rush (D-IL) and his Wireless Microphone Users Interference Act of 2013.
Rush’s bill would create two channels where wireless mics can be operated in safety and will further protect them from interference.
In a letter to Rush supporting the measure, NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith wrote, “Licensed wireless microphones are a vital component of the local service that television broadcasters provide. Stations use microphones to support newsgathering activities and to perform numerous critical internal operations. Without safe haven protections for these operations, broadcasters may not be able to provide on-the-scene coverage of breaking news, emergency information, political events and other time-sensitive situations. Moreover, spectrum available for these essential operations is already congested, and likely to become more so in the future.”
Smith thanked Rush for introducing the bill and pledged to help move forward.
Wireless mics are a major tool for live entertainment venues and sports arenas, among other things.
