FCC Accepting Applications for Native Nations Broadband Task Force

WASHINGTON, June 7, 2010 – The Federal Communications Commission has announced that it is accepting applications for membership in its newly-established Native Nations Broadband Task Force.

The task force will create a forum in which Native American governments can voice their opinions and concerns as the FCC attempts to expand broadband access to tribal lands. The task force also will be responsible for coordinating the different governments and federal agencies and departments in promoting broadband expansion.

Native American government leaders or their representatives may apply for membership in the task force by July 15. Applicants will be obligated to a two-year membership, and most meetings for the task force will take place in Washington, where travel costs will be at a member’s own expense. At these meetings, the members are asked to disclose any interests or connections to people or entities that will be regulated by the FCC.

The Native Nations Broadband Task Force is part of a National Broadband Plan initiative to connect Native American communities and tribal lands through broadband. The plan not only outlines the task force, but also contains plans for the FCC Office of Native American Affairs, which also is expected to launch this year.