Capito Calls on FCC to Increase Transparency, Enforcement for Rural Broadband Funding

Statement

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va) today urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to consider strict enforcement measures and increase transparency for the recently announced Connect America Fund funding. The FCC announced more than $1.5 billion in annual funding as part of the second phase of the Connect America Fund to expand and support broadband service in rural areas. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Angus King (I-Maine) also joined the letter.

"We believe strict enforcement measures, coupled with transparency around how, where, and when the funds are used are necessary to ensure the integrity of the [Connect America Fund] program and the success of the FCC's efforts to advance rural broadband. We seek to maximize the success of the program and ensure that these limited funds are put to the best, appropriate use," the senators wrote.

In the letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler, the senators call on the FCC to provide a publically available list of accountability measures for proper use of the funds, and to explain what enforcement mechanisms will be implemented if carriers fail to meet their obligations under the Connect America Fund program. In states like West Virginia and Maine where a single carrier receives the funding, it is critical that these limited funds are effectively and efficiently used.

"Too many West Virginians are denied economic and educational opportunities simply because they lack access to high-speed internet. With the recently announced funding available through FCC's Connect America Fund, we must ensure that those dollars are used efficiently and effectively, deliver on the stated goals of the program, and close the broadband gap in our state's rural areas," Senator Capito added. Through her Capito Connect plan, Senator Capito is working to bring affordable, high-speed internet to homes, businesses and classrooms in West Virginia.

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