FCC Revokes Pacific Networks' And ComNet's Authority To Provide Telecom Services In America

The Federal Communications Commission adopted an Order ending the ability of Pacific Networks Corp and its wholly-owned subsidiary, ComNet, to provide domestic interstate and international telecommunications services within the United States. The Order on Revocation and Termination directs the companies to discontinue any domestic or international services that they provide pursuant to their section 214 authority within sixty days following the release of this Order. Based on input from Executive Branch agencies, thorough review of the companies’ responses in this proceeding, the public record, and the FCC’s public interest analysis under the law, the FCC finds that this action safeguards the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure from potential security threats. In March 2021, the FCC found that Pacific Networks and ComNet had failed to dispel serious concerns regarding their retention of their authority to provide telecommunications services in the United States. The agency thus adopted procedures that allowed for Pacific Networks and ComNet, the Executive Branch agencies, and the public to present any remaining arguments or evidence in the matter. Based on the FCC’s public interest analysis and the totality of the extensive record, the agency finds that the present and future public interest, convenience, and necessity is no longer served by the companies’ retention of their section 214 authority.