Implementing the National Broadband Plan | Issues

Wireless Innovation for Transportation

On May 12, 2011, the Department of Transportation's Research and Innovative Technology Administration published a Request for Information (RFI) and comments to help identify research and development (R&D) opportunities for wireless technology in surface transportation.

Comment due date: 06/13/2011

Reliability and Continuity of Communications Networks

On April 7, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) seeking public comment on ways to further strengthen the reliability and resiliency of America's communications networks.

Accelerating Broadband Deployment (NOI)

On April 7, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission opened an inquiry into how the Commission can work with other government entities and the private sector to improve policies for access to other physical spaces where wired and wireless broadband can be deployed, including roadways and other rights of way, and locations for wireless facilities. This sets the stage for further acceleration of broadband deployment in the future.

Comment due date: 07/18/2011

Comment reply due date: 08/30/2011

Need for Speed Info

On April 11, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission's Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB) issued a Public Notice asking for comments on the kinds of "need for speed" information that will be most useful to consumers in choosing their Internet service. CGB notes that consumers may have very different needs for broadband service depending on what they use it for. Someone who uses the Web primarily for email, for example, may be well served by a smaller and less expensive service than an avid video viewer would need. Others, such as online gamers, may be especially concerned about factors like signal latency. Comments are due May 26, 2011 and replies June 16, 2011.

Comment due date: 05/26/2011

Comment reply due date: 06/16/2011

Addressing Policy and Logistical Challenges to Smart Grid Implementation

The Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability has issued a Request For Information (RFI) seeking information from stakeholders on the policy and logistical challenges that confront smart grid implementation. Responses to this RFI will also help inform the Administration’s analysis of policy challenges and possible solutions being developed by the Smart Grid Subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Council’s Committee on Technology.

Comment due date: 11/01/2010

Spectrum for Broadband

On March 8, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission released a Public Notice seeking comment on the steps it can take to best promote wireless broadband deployment in the 1695-1710 MHz and 3550 3650 MHz bands recently identified by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for accommodating wireless broadband.

Improving Communications Services for Native Nations by Promoting Greater Utilization of Spectrum over Tribal Lands

On March 3, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on ways to expand the efficient use of spectrum over Tribal lands so as to improve access to mobile wireless communications, which will provide consumers with more choices on how they communicate, share information and get their news.

Improving Communications Services for Native Nations (NOI)

On March 3, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Notice of Inquiry to seek government-to-government consultation and coordination with federally recognized Tribes and the input of inter-Tribal government associations, Native representative organizations, and the public on modifications to our rules and policies to provide greater economic, market entry, and adoption opportunities and incentives for Native Nations.

Lifeline and Link Up Reform and Modernization

On March 3, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission proposed a set of reforms that will modernize and drive tougher accountability measures into the Lifeline/Link Up program. On August 5, 2011, the FCC released a Public Notice seeking further input. On September 26, 2011, the FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB) sought comment on a proposal for disbursing Universal Service Fund low income support to eligible telecommunications carriers (ETCs) based upon claims for reimbursement of actual support payments made, instead of projected claims for support.

Comment due date: 04/21/2011

Comment reply due date: 05/25/2011

Broadband Data Collection

On February 8, 2011, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on whether and how to reform collection of data regarding broadband and local telephone service.

Comment due date: 03/30/2011

Comment reply due date: 04/14/2011