Northpoint Sneaks in Lobbying Effort

Northpoint Technology, the Washington, D.C., company that wants to use DBS spectrum on a shared basis for its planned wireless service, is continuing attempts on Capitol Hill to gain the frequencies exclusively for its own use.

According to the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association and its weekly President's Report, Northpoint targeted legislation - aimed at extending the IPO deadline for satellite operator Intelsat - as a vehicle for an amendment that would give it a free nationwide MVDDS (Multichannel Video Distribution and Data Service) license. Despite Northpoint's lobbying efforts, the legislation passed the Senate by unanimous consent without any amendments.

The SBCA said it worked with several member companies to defeat the Northpoint effort.

The spectrum that Northpoint desperately wants is set to be auctioned by the Federal Communications Commission. The company is challenging that auction in court.

From SkyReport (Used with Permission)