What's on the agenda for policymakers.
Agenda
Broadband on the Ballot in North Carolina
Although a great deal of attention is on the 2024 elections at the national level, state elections could play a major role in how high-speed networks are rolled out, particularly in regards to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. The need for reliable communications is very apparent in the state this week. Since Friday, September 27, Western North Carolina has been experiencing catastrophic flooding as a result of Hurricane Helene.
Epic Games to Sue Google, Samsung Over Alleged App-Store Scheme
Fortnite maker Epic Games says it is suing Google and Samsung, alleging that the companies secretly colluded and imposed “onerous” restrictions on new third-party app stores. Epic alleges that Google and Samsung made it too difficult for consumers to download app stores made by outside software developers, a new possibility after Google lost a previous antitrust lawsuit brought by the videogame company. The tech giants conspired to make a feature called Auto Blocker active by default on Samsung’s newest smartphones, according to Epic.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is at a critical phase. Just months into its enforcement, the European Commission has already initiated proceedings against Alphabet, Apple, and Meta. But is the DMA achieving its intended goals, and are the ongoing investigations leading to meaningful outcomes? While the DMA is designed to level the digital playing field and enhance competition, the adoption of national implementation laws by member states risks undermining these objectives, potentially leading to regulatory fragmentation.
This forum is designed to initiate conversations between communities with BEAD-eligible locations and prospective BEAD applicants in their area. Participants should expect a fast-paced, guided activity designed to foster partnerships and collaboration.
Whether you represent a community eager for improved internet access or an Internet Service Provider planning to (or considering whether to) apply for a BEAD grant, this event promises valuable insights and networking opportunities to drive connectivity advancements across our state.
This virtual workshop will consider the use of design features that keep kids, including teens, online longer and coming back more frequently.
Researchers, technologists, child development and legal experts, consumer advocates, and industry professionals will discuss design features that keep kids engaged on digital platforms like websites, apps, and interactive online services. Participants will hear from experts about the potential impacts of those features on the well-being of younger users, as well as how platforms might factor these impacts into such design features.
Balancing Access and Affordability in Rhode Island
In June 2024, ConnectRI, a program of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation (RICC) released the final and approved version of the state's Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program Initial Proposal Volume II.
FCC Adopts Rules to Improve Access to Video Conferencing Services
The Federal Communications Commission adopted new rules to ensure that people with disabilities can fully participate in video conferencing, including by paving the way for the use of telecommunications relay services (TRS).
FCC Unlocks Spectrum to Support Advanced Satellite Services
The Federal Communications Commission adopted new rules to open 1300 megahertz of contiguous spectrum for non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) fixed-satellite service operations in the 17.3-17.8 GHz band. This action promotes spectrum efficiency, fosters competition, and expands the ability of satellite operators to deploy advanced services, including high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved areas.
FCC Announces Tentative Agenda for October 2024 Open Meeting
Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced that the items below are tentatively on the agenda for the October Open Commission Meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 17, 2024:
Social media warning labels come to Washington
An idea percolating all summer in the big national argument about social media—warning labels to help reduce the harms of online platforms to kids—has suddenly landed in Congress. Sens. Katie Britt (R-AL) and John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced a bill requiring platforms to add those labels.