FCC Investigates Broadband Providers Over Coverage Claims

The Federal Communications Commission is investigating whether broadband-service providers exaggerated their level of coverage to authorities preparing to distribute billions of dollars in subsidies. At issue are claims by carriers that they already provide high-speed internet service to rural and other underserved areas where it’s not actually available. The Biden administration is awarding $42.5 billion to increase access in these locations. Areas served and unserved are being marked on a map compiled by the FCC. State and local officials, consultants and federal lawmakers have accused wireless providers of overstating the breadth and quality of their service in their reports to regulators. Broad claims of coverage could block potential rivals from obtaining subsidies that would let them more aggressively compete with the established providers. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel revealed that there was an investigation in a Feb. 3 letter to members of Congress concerned about progress in the program. “We have taken several steps to prevent systematic overreporting of coverage by broadband service providers,” Chairwoman Rosenworcel said. “Efforts to intentionally misstate service may be subject to enforcement action. In fact, we already have an investigation underway.” Since then the agency has moved to multiple probes.