LEO
Rip and Replace, Biden AI Order, Telesat Seeks Permission to Launch
The FCC grants two providers rip and replace extensions.
Joe Biden
Tribal Providers Say They Rely on ACP to Connect Communities
The fund is set to run dry in 2024.
FCC
White Houses Asks Congress to Fill Rip and Replace Funding Gap
The $3 billion shortfall was first flagged by the FCC in July 2022.
Broadband's Impact
Biden Administration Asks Congress for $6 Billion to Continue ACP
The internet subsidy dubbed the Affordable Connectivity Program is set to dry up as early as April 2024.
FCC
Conservative Group Files Another Legal Challenge to Universal Service Fund
The Sixth Circuit struck down another similar petition from Consumers’ Research.
FTC
FTC Chair Warns Artificial Intelligence Industry of Vigorous Enforcement
The FTC’s statute on consumer protection that ‘prohibits unfair deceptive practices’ extends to AI, said Kahn.
FCC
Telecoms and Tech Giants Disagree on Where to Find More Universal Service Funds
The USF is facing dwindling funds and pending court challenges.
USDA
Bill Proposes to Modify ReConnect Program in Favor of Small Provider Applicants
The bill would create a ‘mini-grant program’ and an interagency broadband council.
EVs
House Committee Passes Three Bills to Reauthorize NTIA and Research Trans-Atlantic Cable and AI
Also discussed were three bills to address electric vehicle laws in Democratic states.
Broadband's Impact
Lack of Affordable Connectivity Fund Money Could Hobble Broadband Deployment: Experts
Providers are using revenues from the ACP to bankroll broadband buildouts.
Fabric
FCC Map Update, FCC Renews FirstNet Spectrum Authority, NTIA Warns EU Over Big Tech Proposal
New FCC map shows 8.3 million unserved locations.
China
Experts Debate TikTok Ban, Weighing National Security Against Free Speech
Although many experts agree TikTok poses a threat, some believe a ban is the wrong solution.
FCC
‘Urgent’ Social Media Advisory, Tribal Broadband Awards, Permitting Reform Progress, BroadbandNow Podcast
The Surgeon General called on Congress to take action against the harms social media poses to youth.
Defense Department
Lawmakers Should Incentivize Cybersecurity in Private Sector: Cisco Executive
One weak link can threaten the entire system.
Energy
Lawmakers Debate Clean Energy’s Role in Resolving Supply Chain Fragility, China Concerns
The U.S. accounts for just 10 percent of electric vehicle production and 7 percent of battery production.
Expert Opinion
Angie Kronenberg: The FCC Must Act Now to Save the USF
While the USF remains vital in an ever-increasing connected world, it is in serious jeopardy of surviving.
