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FCC Issues a Public Notice Seeking Comments on FCC’s Consultative Role in the Broadband Deployment Programs under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

Written Comments Due: April 13, 2009

March 25 , 2009
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The Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) has issued a Public Notice establishing procedures for parties to provide written comments on the FCC’s consultative role in the broadband programs under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (“ARRA”). The ARRA directs the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (“NTIA”) to consult with the FCC on certain matters relating to the NTIA broadband grant program. The FCC may also provide expert, technical advice to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service in connection with its broadband loan, loan guarantee and grant program.

Specifically, Congress has directed NTIA to consult with the FCC on five specific issues:

1. The definition of “unserved areas.”

2. The definition of “underserved areas.”

3. The definition of “broadband.”

4. The non-discrimination obligations that will condition NTIA grants.

5. The network interconnection obligations that will condition NTIA grants.

Parties are encouraged to limit their comments to these five issues.

            We would be pleased to respond to any questions regarding these matters or to assist in the preparation of written comments.