RWHC Comments on the Rural Universal Service Broadband NPRM
Here is a link to the comments RWHC has submitted on the proposed rule to change the Rural Universal Service Telecommunications Program.
Our recommendations include:
1. Allow short-term lease projects to participate in the new Infrastructure Program, so more rural networks can participate.
2. Raise the subsidy of the new Broadband Program from 50%, and raise the construction cost subsidy from 50% to 85%.
3. Do not condition broadband support on meaningful use.
4. Reduce the administrative burden by funding administrative expenses, not just for the Infrastructure Program (as proposed) but for the other programs.
5. Expand eligibility (as proposed) to rural provider controlled datacenters and administrative offices.
6. Ensure that rural broadband equity remains the focus of this program.
