The U.S. Senate on Thursday night, approved the Rural Wireless Access Act of 2017. It requires the FCC to establish a consistent method to collect wireless broadband coverage data. Introduced by Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), and 10 co-sponsors, including Joe Manchin (D-WV), S. 1621 is aimed at ensuring unserved and underserved areas gain access to mobile broadband services. The Senate Commerce Committee approved the measure last fall.
“Unless we have accurate information about where the coverage gaps actually are, we cannot put a solution in place that improves the high-speed internet service of consumers in rural areas,” Wicker said. He added that last August, the FCC took steps to improve data collection regarding mobile and broadband service, in addition to providing $2 billion to the Connect America Fund over the next 10 years.
“As the FCC considers newly collected data to direct $4.5 billion in Universal Service Fund support for mobile broadband, I hope this action guides the FCC to take further steps to help improve the consumer experience, especially in rural areas,” said Competitive Carriers Association President/CEO Steven Berry. He added that a streamlined, reliable and accurate data collection process is needed to appropriately target resources to preserve and expand mobile broadband.
“Many areas of the country still do not have access to sufficient mobile broadband services, and without accurate data to identify these locations, there is a real risk these areas will be left behind in the digital world,” said Berry; he urged swift House passage.
March 5, 2018
Reader Interactions