Current spectrum regulations are widely viewed as inefficient and costly, but there is no consensus regarding the best way to manage spectrum. Some believe that market mechanisms—usually in the form of auctions—are the best way to maximize spectrum’s value. Others argue that spectrum is a public good, and that at least some of it should be treated as a common resource open to any potential entrant. Proponents of this commons approach maintain that new interference-avoiding technology makes licensing unnecessary and impractical. At this Joint Center conference, experts will discuss the pros and cons of different forms of spectrum governance.