[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 41 (Monday, October 16, 2000)]
[Page 2455]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Action To Support the Third Generation of Wireless 
Technology

October 13, 2000

    Today I am pleased to sign an executive memorandum that will help 
ensure that America maintains its leadership in two of the most 
important technologies driving the U.S. economy--wireless 
telecommunications and the Internet. I am directing Federal agencies to 
work with the Federal Communications Commission and the private sector 
to identify the radio spectrum needed for the ``third generation'' of 
wireless technology. These so-called 3G systems will allow Americans to 
have mobile, high-speed access to the Internet and new 
telecommunications services anytime, anywhere.
    My administration is committed to strengthening U.S. leadership in 
the information and communications industry. Over the last 5 years, the 
information technology sector has accounted for nearly one-third of U.S. 
economic growth and has generated jobs that pay 85 percent more than the 
private sector average. The action I am taking today will help U.S. 
high-tech entrepreneurs compete and win in the global marketplace. It 
also will allow consumers to enjoy a wide range of new wireless tools 
and technologies, such as handheld devices that combine services like a 
phone, a computer, a pager, a radio, a customized newspaper, a GPS 
locator, and a credit card.
    I am confident that Federal agencies, working with the private 
sector, can develop a plan for identifying the spectrum that will meet 
the needs of the wireless industry and is fully consistent with national 
security and public safety concerns. As made clear in a report released 
today by my Council of Economic Advisers, time is of the essence. If the 
United States does not move quickly to allocate this spectrum, there is 
a danger that the U.S. could lose market share in the industries of the 
21st century. If we do this right, it will help ensure continued 
economic growth, the creation of new high-tech jobs, and the creation of 
exciting new Internet and telecommunications services.