Expert Opinion
Tom Reid: Accountability in Broadband Maps Necessary for BEAD to Achieve Mission
The sheer magnitude of the overstatements in the FCC’s map makes the challenge process untenable.
RDOF
In August 2019, the FCC adopted a $20.4 billion Rural Digital Opportunity Fund to expand high-speed fixed broadband service to underserved areas. Phase I of the program concluded on November 25, 2020, but the overall program will continue through 2028 as funding is distributed.
FCC
FCC Commissioner Carr Criticizes BEAD Fiber Priority Ahead of Funding Allocation
The NTIA has acknowledged a clear preference for fiber in its bipartisan infrastructure deployment effort.
FCC
Experts Clash Over Whether Reverse Auctions Are Ideal for BEAD Grants
Reverse auctions would stretch funding further.
Expert Opinion
Mike Conlow: There Really Is Enough Money to Reach Most of the Unserved and Underserved
Estimating how far the money will go does not require advanced math.
FCC
Starry Group Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Starry said the bankruptcy will put it in a better position to continue offering service.
FCC
Regulation, Reporting Requirements and Oversight Can Make a Difference in Grant Applications
Several documents will improve application competitiveness, said Paul Garnett of Vernonburg Group.
FCC
Starlink Should Prevail in RDOF Challenge, Says Tech Think Tank
TechFreedom argued that the FCC overstated the flaws of Starlink’s network.
SpaceX
Kate Forscey: Mobile Broadband Gap Needs to Be Remedied, Too
A recent study by CostQuest suggests that 37,000 more towers are needed to bring mobile coverage up to speed nationwide.
Chips
New Lumen CEO, Ericsson Testing Drones, Starlink Challenges FCC on RDOF
Johnson will replace former CEO Jeff Storey, who announced his retirement after a 40-year career.
FCC
Carr ‘Surprised’ by RDOF Denials, ‘New Normal’ on Supply Chain, $68M for Student Connectivity
Carr said he was notified via press release of the FCC decision to deny RDOF money to Starlink and LTD.
USDA
FCC Urged to Address Overbuilding and Broadband Tech Neutrality in Agency Coordination
The FCC should incorporate the mapping data from local governments to avoid overbuilding, ensure technology neutrality.
Broadband Live
Utilities, Broadband Providers Split on Pole Attachment Rate Policy
Utilities Technology Council CEO Sheryl Riggs questioned whether broadband access is expanded if costs just float to ratepayers.
FCC
FCC Greenlights $200 Million More in Latest Rural Digital Opportunity Fund Round
It’s the ninth wave of funding confirmations, bringing the total amount to more than $5.2 billion to three million locations.
SpaceX
Joel Thayer and Shane Tews: Rural Broadband Requires Out-of-the-Box Thinking
Mobile broadband is largely ignored by federal connectivity efforts.
Broadband Live
WISP Executives Debate Whether Government Unfairly Favors Fiber Builds Over Wireless
Critic cites RDOF program as an example of bias toward fiber.
FCC
Federal Communications Commission Shuts Out Provider for Latest RDOF Funding
The commission says RHMD, LLC ‘failed to diligently pursue efforts to obtain’ a waiver for the eligibility deadline.
