Implementing the National Broadband Plan | Issues

Experimental Licensing

On November 30, 2010, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that seeks to expand the FCC’s existing Experimental Radio Service rules to promote cutting-edge research and foster development of new wireless technologies, devices, and applications. Specifically, the Commission proposed a new type of license, called a “program license,” which would give qualified entities broad authority to conduct research without the need to seek new approval for each individual experiment.

Employ longitudinal design in assessing BTOP where possible.

Recommendation #220
FCC Chapter: A.4

Status: In progress

Employ longitudinal design in assessing BTOP where possible.

Create a panel of experts from the academic and research community to advise on BTOP assessment approaches

Recommendation #219
FCC Chapter: A.3

Status: Started

Create a panel of experts from the academic and research community to advise on assessment approaches.

Develop measures that specify outcomes to be assessed

Recommendation #218
FCC Chapter: A.2

Status: In progress

Develop measures that specify outcomes to be assessed.

Track BTOP outcomes

Recommendation #217
FCC Chapter: A.1

Status: In progress

Ensure that assessment tracks BTOP outcomes, not only execution.

Broadband Performance Dashboard

Recommendation #216
FCC Chapter: 17.3
The FCC should publish a Broadband Performance Dashboard with metrics designed to track broadband plan goals.

Publish a timetable of proceedings to implement plan recommendations

Recommendation #215
FCC Chapter: 17.2

Status: In progress

The FCC should quickly publish a timetable of proceedings to implement plan recommendations within its authority, publish an evaluation of plan progress and effectiveness as part of the annual Section 706 Advanced Services Inquiry, create a Broadband Data Depository, and continue to utilize Broadband.gov as a public resource for broadband information.

Identify the costs of deploying a nationwide NG 911 System

Recommendation #207
FCC Chapter: 16.13

Status: In progress

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should prepare a report to identify the costs of deploying a nationwide NG 911 System and recommend that Congress allocate public funding.

Expand outage reporting requirements to broadband service providers

Recommendation #200
FCC Chapter: 16.6

Status: In progress

The FCC should expand its outage reporting requirements to broadband service providers.

Survey public safety broadband wireless mobile infrastructure and devices.

Recommendation #196
FCC Chapter: 16.2
Survey public safety broadband wireless mobile infrastructure and devices.