Policymakers

Arpan Sura has joined Commissioner Brendan Carr's office as Legal Advisor. Sura previously served as Senior Counsel to the Chief of the FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, where he focused on spectrum policy, emerging technologies, and infrastructure matters. Before joining the FCC, Sura spent more than a decade representing clients in the telecommunications and technology sectors, most recently as Counsel in the Communications, Internet, and Media practice at Hogan Lovells. 

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) issued a Federal Register Notice to seek expressions of interest from individuals who would like to serve on the Board of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority Board or Board). The Board works closely with the FirstNet Authority management and is responsible for providing overall policy direction and strategic guidance.

Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced that the FCC will re-establish the Communications Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council (CSRIC), with its primary focus to include how artificial intelligence and machine learning can enhance the security, reliability, and integrity of communications networks in a nondiscriminatory, transparent, and socially responsible manner. The Chairwoman also plans to task the next CSRIC with addressing forward-looking issues including the security and reliability risks unique to emerging 6G networks and the reliab

One thing my experience has taught me is that companies hate regulation…that is until they want it.  Yes, it is funny, but it is also true and not surprising.  I am a firm believer in the power of competition to drive innovation that improves services and lowers prices for consumers.  I believe that a vibrant, strong, and competitive telecommunications and media marketplace that promotes U.S. prosperity can also meet the needs of all consumers.  But competition only works when the market works.

Federal Communications Commissioner Brendan Carr announced changes to his staff. Ben Arden, who has been on detail to the Carr office for over four years and has been serving as Chief of Staff, is returning to the FCC’s Media Bureau. Greg Watson, who has been Carr’s Policy Advisor since January 2021, has been promoted to Chief of Staff.

Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel appointed six members to the Board of Directors of the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). Each appointee was nominated in response to two Public Notices soliciting nominations for the Board position listed below, including a Public Notice seeking nominations for the newly created Tribal board member position. The three-year term for these positions begins on January 1, 2024. 

Barb Fuller is a former dental hygienist and political activist. Gary Munce is a musician and retired library manager of information systems. Driven by a spirit of paying it forward, together they have worked to address the digital divide in Washtenaw County, Michigan. Thanks in part to their efforts, by early 2025, every home in Washtenaw County is set to be connected with high-speed, fiber-based broadband. Washtenaw County, in the southeast region of Michigan, is home to over 320,000 residents.

Spend a little time with Idaho State Broadband Program Manager Ramón Hobdey-Sánchez and it’s easy to see his enthusiasm for his home state. “I have a passion for public service and there are few things that I love more than the State of Idaho,” Hobdey-Sánchez said. “Broadband and internet connectivity is something that we can all agree is good for individuals, communities, and the state.

The Federal Communications Commission renewed the charter of the Task Force for Reviewing the Connectivity and Technology Needs of Precision Agriculture in the United States (the Task Force) for a period expiring on January 1, 2025. The purpose of the Task Force is to:

The National Digital Inclusion Alliance is accepting applications for the 2024 Digital Equity Champion Awards. Named for Charles Benton, the founder of Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, NDIA created the awards to recognize leadership and dedication in advancing digital equity: from promoting the ideal of accessible and affordable communications technology for all Americans to crafting programs and policies that make it a reality. NDIA presents two awards: the Digital Equity Champion Award recognizes an outstanding ind