FCC Waives Universal Service Fund and Broadband Program Rules in Response to Hurricane Fiona

The Federal Communications Commission waived certain E-Rate, Emergency Connectivity Fund, Rural Health Care, COVID-19 Telehealth, Lifeline, and Affordable Connectivity Program rules and deadlines to assist participants and service providers, including Universal Service Fund (USF) contributors, located in the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona, which struck Puerto Rico on September 18, 2022. The resulting heavy rainfall, wind, landslides, and flooding have damaged homes, schools, libraries, and health care facilities and displaced residents. The hurricane has also caused significant power outages throughout the impacted areas. Because of these compelling and unique circumstances, the FCC finds good cause to waive certain rules and deadlines to assist program participants, service providers, and USF contributors in the affected areas.