Diaz introduces bill to eliminate MBTV competitor

KOROR (Palau Horizon) – Five Senators jointly authored a proposed Senate Bill which will manage the radio frequency spectrum and regulate the use of all radio frequencies and radio communication devices.
Senate Bill 8-19 was sponsored by Sens. Alfonso Diaz, Raynold Oilouch, Adalbert Eledui, Mlib Tmetuchl and Surangel Whipps Jr.

The bill also prohibits the issuance of broadcasting radio and television license any foreign government; any non-citizen, any corporation or any corporation of which any officer or director is a non-citizen; or any corporation directly or indirectly controlled by any other corporation of which any officer or director is a non-citizen.

The bill said that the use of radio communication devices mainly in the VHF and UHF bands and a number of radio stations including fixed and broasdcasting stations has increased significantly
The bill will establish necessary government control over the import, sale , offer for sale , lease offer for lease, manufacture , shipment and possession of radio communication equipment.

The measure will calls for maximizing the allocation and use of the spectrum and make adequate provision of the spectrum and provide a responsive and flexible approach to the needs of users in the spectrum.

The bill will also provide a regulatory environment that maximizes opportunities for the Palau communications industry in domestic and international markets and promote Palau’s interests concerning international agreements, treaties and convention relating to the radio communications or the radio frequency spectrum to keep up with the obligations under the Compact of Free Association agreement.

The 45-page document listed also licensing; violation when it comes to unlicensed operation of telecommunication devices, unlawful possession of radio communication devices.