FCC Extends Deadline for Native Nations Broadband Task Force Applications

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2010 – The Federal Communications Commission has extended the deadline for nominating new members to the Native Nations Broadband Task Force.

Released on June 2, the notice for nominations’ original deadline was July 15, but has now been extended through August 20.

“The commission has determined that a short extension of time to submit nominations is advisable to permit Tribal governments adequate time to complete their internal processes associated with nominating a representative to the Task Force”

The Task Force’s goal is to help the broadband internet penetration of Tribal lands and is responsible for developing a consultation policy based upon input and recommendations from tribes, and also coordinating with other Federal agencies, “to ensure that Native concerns are considered in all Commission proceedings related to broadband,” according to the public notice.

Applicants to these positions will commit to a two-year service term in which they will have to be present at meetings in Washington, or teleconference the meetings. The Task Force’s members will include senior Commission staff and elected leaders from Federally-recognized Native American governments.