Vol. 18, No. 27
June 27, 2022
System Opens June 30 to Accept Broadband Availability Data
The FCC’s Broadband Data Task Force announced that fixed and mobile broadband providers and other filers of broadband availability data in the Broadband Data Collection (BDC) may obtain early access to certain portions of the BDC system to enter identifying entity information in advance of the opening of the broadband availability data filing window on June 30, 2022. This will enable users associated with service providers and other filers to register their entities in the system and become familiar with how certain parts of the system will work before the filing window opens.

There are several steps filers can take now in order to submit availability data in the BDC system beginning on June 30. Users log in to the BDC system using their FCC login credentials, which are the same account credentials (username and password) created in the Commission Registration System (CORES). Once users log in, they can select a corresponding FCC registration number (FRN) associated with their username and then enter their entity identification information. If a filer does not have an FRN, they may find more information on how to request one here.

More information on how to log in, navigate the BDC system and submit data can be found in the detailed BDC System User Guide and related video tutorials, available at the BDC Help Center.
NTIA Middle Mile Grant Applications Now Being Accepted
The NTIA Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program is now accepting applications. An application checklist and packet of templates and the program application guidance is available for you to prepare your application, and you can register your account here to begin the process. It is important for members to know that using the templates and application guidance provided will ensure the most effective and timely review.

Also, if you have any issues with logging into the NTIA Grants Portal, adding additional users, navigating the website or application intake system, uploading forms or templates, email questions to NGPhelpdesk@ntia.gov.

The Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program is the $1 billion grant program that will provide funding to expand middle mile infrastructure and reduce the cost of connecting unserved and underserved areas. The program will invest in the construction, improvement or acquisition of middle mile infrastructure.

All Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program applications are due by Friday, September 30, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
Briefs Filed in Appeal of USF Contribution Factor Approval
Briefs were filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit on June 17, 2022, in a case appealing the FCC’s approval of the first quarter 2022 universal service contribution factor.

Amicus briefs were filed by 10 members of Congress, Public Knowledge and Emeritus Professor Robert Frieden in support of the FCC. The Congressional brief asserted dismantling the USF system would have disastrous consequences and cause Americans to lose the essential services on which they rely. Intervenors’ briefs were also filed by USTelecom, NTCA and the CCA and the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition, et al. in support of the FCC. USTelecom, et al. argued the Section 254 directive that the FCC preserve and advance universal service is constitutional, and said the contributions collected in furtherance of Section 254 are fees and not taxes.