On August 4, 2023, the FCC released a Report and Order1 that adopted rules to maximize provider participation in the Affordable Connectivity Program (“ACP”) by providing enhanced discounts for monthly broadband services in high-cost areas, in addition to the standard $30 per month benefit. Specifically, providers can provide an up-to-$75 monthly benefit to ACP eligible […]

On July 24, 2023, the FCC released its Report and Order adopting the Enhanced Alternative Connect America Cost Model (“A-CAM”) to promote widespread deployment of 100/20 Mbps broadband access. The Commission also issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (“NPRM”) seeking comment on how to address the immediate needs of legacy rate of return support mechanisms, […]

On July 21, 2023, the FCC issued a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking1 regarding steps to encourage greater participation by eligible Tribal applicants in the E-Rate program. The E-Rate program provides high speed internet to libraries and elementary and secondary schools at a discounted rate of 20% – 90% off of […]

The FCC this week released comment dates for its new international telecommunications service authorization proposals.[1] Most importantly, international authorization holders should be aware that the FCC is proposing new rules that: 1) Require carriers to renew, every 10 years, their international authorizations; or 2) In the alternative, would require all international authorization holders to periodically […]

The Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) has extended the September 1, 2023 deadline for filing Broadband Data Collection (“BDC”) data until September 15, 2023, due to certain broadband serviceable locations not being included in the most recent production of the June 2023 Fabric. CostQuest is sending an updated version of the June 2023 Fabric to licensees […]

The Broadband Data Collection (BDC) filing window opened on July 3, 2023. Please be reminded that all facilities-based providers of fixed or mobile broadband Internet and voice, including providers of interconnected voice over Internet protocol, are required to file broadband availability and subscription data, as well as voice availability and subscription data, as of June […]

The FCC has recently released a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (“12.2 GHz Band Order”) and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order (“12.7 GHz NPRM”) regarding expanding use of the 12.2 and 12.7 GHz band.1 In the 12.2 GHz Band Order, the FCC rejected Dish Network’s proposal to use the 12.2 […]

This is a reminder that facilities-based small voice providers1 must implement the STIR/SHAKEN (S/S)2 caller ID framework in their Interconnected Protocol (IP) networks no later than June 30, 2023. The FCC continues to grant voice service providers an ongoing extension of the implementation deadline for the non-IP portions of their networks, subject to certain requirements, […]

In order to improve the reliability and resiliency of mobile wireless networks during disasters and emergencies, last year the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued a Report and Order adopting requirements for a Mandatory Disaster Response Initiative (MDRI).1 Once the requirements become effective, the MDRI will apply to all facilities-based mobile wireless providers, regardless of their […]

Common carrier licensees with sixteen (16) or more full-time employees must file an annual employment report (FCC Form 395) with the Federal Communications Commission by May 31, 2023. If the filing concerns a licensee that had fewer than sixteen (16) full-time employees during the selected payroll period, no Form 395 filing is required. Such licensees, […]