Comcast Seeks E-Rate Waiver Regarding its Lift Zone Initiative

The Federal Communications Commission's Wireline Competition Bureau seeks comment on a petition for waiver filed by Comcast requesting that the FCC waive certain E-Rate rules to allow it to conduct a pilot program with several libraries to expand its “Lift Zone” initiative. Comcast states that its Lift Zone initiative is designed to address the Homework Gap and the digital divide by setting up safe places where students and members of the community may use Internet services to participate in remote learning and complete homework assignments. Comcast proposes to partner with seven selected library systems to establish Lift Zones and will provide the libraries with: (1) complimentary Business Internet connection; (2) business-grade, high capacity Wi-Fi Pro service which simplifies the set-up and management of the Wi-Fi network; and (3) Security Edge service which protects Lift Zone users from cyberthreats and inappropriate content. Comcast is requesting a waiver of sections 54.503(d)(1) [regarding gift restrictions] and 54.523 [regarding payment for the non-discount portion of supported services] of the FCC’s rules, and any other FCC rules necessary, to be able to establish Lift Zones at these selected library systems.

Comments are due June 21; Reply comments are due July 6. CC Docket No. 02-6   See Comcast's request