King, Capito, Daines Call on FCC to Increase Transparency, Enforcement for Rural Broadband Funding

Statement

U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) are urging 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.

"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 a letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler yesterday, the Senators call on the FCC to provide a publically available list of accountability measures for proper use of the federal 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 Maine and West Virginia where a single carrier receives the funding, it is critical that these limited funds are effectively and efficiently used.

Source