/>iJurisdictional Separations Freeze FNPRM
The FCC proposed to extend by six years the jurisdictional separations category relationships and cost allocation factors freeze for rate-of-return incumbent local exchange carriers (“LECs”). The jurisdictional separations rules require that rate-of-return incumbent LECs divide their costs and revenues between intrastate and interstate jurisdictions. The cost allocation factors are used to categorize costs that support both intrastate and interstate services. In 2001, the FCC issued an order freezing all allocation factors and allowing a voluntary freeze of category relationships, which has been extended several times. The current freeze extension will expire on December 31, 2024, unless extended.
Federal Use of Non-Federal Satellite Service Pleading Cycle
The FCC has set the pleading cycle for a new docket seeking comment on ways to expand Federal access to non-Federal satellite services. The FCC seeks information on approaches to providing Federal earth stations with interference protection when communicating with commercial satellites in bands not allocated for Federal fixed or mobile satellite service. The Commission also seeks comment on how to change the Allocation Table rules to reflect any changes in Federal use of non-Federal satellite services. Comments and reply comments are due July 31 and August 30, 2024, respectively.
$18.2 Million in Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program Awards
Last week the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency announced more than $18.2 million in Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program awards. The awards were the first of their kind and were provided to assist Tribal Nations with managing and reducing cyber risks. In total, 32 awards were provided, with the top awards going to the Muscogee, Choctaw, and Creek Nations in Oklahoma.
Lifeline Service Accessibility Compliance
Last week, the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau issued an order finding Assurance Wireless USA L.P. (“Assurance”) violated the Communications Act and Commission rules by failing to ensure its Lifeline service was accessible to and usable by individuals with vision disabilities. The Commission also found that Assurance failed to create and maintain records documenting efforts to implement accessible and usable service. The FCC proposed that Assurance make information about its accessibility features publicly available and have employees available to assist users who require such features.
