30 Jan New FCC Funding Program a ‘Critical Piece’ to Expanding Broadband Services: UTC
Washington—Jan. 30, 2020—The Utilities Technology Council issued the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC, the Commission) approved the $20.4 billion Rural Digital Opportunity Fund to expand broadband deployment in unserved and underserved areas of the U.S.:
“The Utilities Technology Council applauds the Federal Communications Commission for adopting the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), which will help to promote the deployment of robust, reliable and resilient broadband networks. Utilities empower broadband deployment, and programs like the RDOF will help utilities and others offset the high cost of bringing internet services in unserved areas. The RDOF program will help ensure that Americans in these areas have access to broadband services that are reasonably comparable to services available in urban areas of the country. UTC supports the Commission’s decision to award funding to projects that will provide faster speeds and lower latency once the bidding has reached the clearing round stage of the auction. This will invest federal funding wisely in future-proof projects capable of meeting increasing consumer expectations on a cost-effective basis. Additionally, this will also avoid investments in technologies that become obsolete and must be replaced.
“Utilities of all shapes and sizes empower broadband deployment. In many cases, utilities deploy gigabit networks and offer services at prices that are less than $100/month. The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund is a critical piece in ensuring that all Americans have access to reliable and fast broadband services.”
–UTC Vice President and General Counsel Brett Kilbourne
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About UTC
The Utilities Technology Council (UTC) is a global trade association dedicated to serving critical infrastructure providers. Through advocacy, education and collaboration, UTC creates a favorable business, regulatory and technology environment for our members who own or operate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems in support of their core business. For more information: UTC.org
