Experienced Advice for New Broadband Program

It is equally important for the Federal Communications Commission to understand how the US Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service (RUS) pilot program funding is being spent.  There are several programs that promote and enable broadband deployment and operation within the high-cost or Connect America Fund umbrella.  Some programs are already underway; some are about to commence in the form of upcoming auctions, and some have yet to be implemented.  Just as I hope that RUS will not duplicate the work of the FCC, I also want to ensure that we have the necessary data to ensure that a recipient of USF support from the FCC does not overbuild a different company receiving funding from the RUS pilot program.

Along those lines, it will be important for both agencies to work with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on data on current and future broadband funding commitments so that the broadband map developed pursuant to this legislation provides the most accurate information possible regarding any remaining unserved areas. By sharing information and data on our respective programs, the FCC and RUS can provide valuable insight into which areas should receive support, helping to target funding in a cost-effective manner to places that need it most.