1. Monthly archive
  2. December 2019

December 2019

Chairman Pai's Response to Members of Congress Regarding the Investigation on Wireless Carriers Sharing Location Information

On June 24, 2019, Reps Gwen Moore (D-WI) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI) to raise the concerns of domestic violence victims with the news that wireless customers' real-time location data can be acquired from carriers. On December 3, FCC Chairman replied that the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau has been working on this investigation, reviewing over 50,000 pages of documents. "Based on the latest update I have received, the Bureau’s investigation is nearing its conclusion, and I am confident that the Bureau will be able to announce the results no later than the end of January.

Chairman Pai's Response to Members of Congress Regarding Educational Broadband Service

In November 2019, Members of Congress wrote to the Federal Communications Commission to express concern that the very brief notice, and even shorter window for filing spectrum license applications in the 2.5 GHz proceeding will prevent many tribes and tribal organizations from taking advantage of the priority window. In addition, they said the FCC request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) expedite its Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) approval of the order may further disadvantage eligible tribes and tribal organizations.

Senate Commerce Approves C-Band Auction Bill

In a straight party-line vote, the Republican-controlled Senate Commerce Committee has favorably reported out an amended bill that would require the Federal Communications Commission to auction, by the end of 2020, at least 280 MHz of C-Band spectrum for 5G, with at least half of the gross proceeds, and potentially more, going to the US Treasury and 10% to rural broadband buildouts. Democrats argued that allowing even 50% of the

Can 5G replace everybody’s home broadband?

When it comes to the possibility of home broadband competition, we want to believe. And in the case of 5G mobile broadband, wireless carriers want us to believe, too. But whether or not technological and commercial realities will reward that faith remains unclear.

Statewide Fiber Network Consolidation: Bluebird to Acquire Illinois Network Alliance

Bluebird Networks, operator of a fiber network spanning several Midwestern states, said it has signed an agreement to purchase Illinois Network Alliance (INA), which operates a network in that state. INA is owned by several smaller Illinois telecom service providers. Bluebird already managed INA but according to an announcement of the purchase plans, “this new ownership role will enable Bluebird to strategically expand its capabilities and offerings between INA and other Bluebird infrastructures.” The company said it will expand further into new and underserved areas.

Knock, Knock. Who's There? Ajit Pai

At the Federal Communications Bar Association's annual Chairman's Dinner, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai delivered a solid set of inside jokes. 

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