Bill > S98

This bill requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a comprehensive vetting process for applicants seeking funding through the high-cost universal service program, which supports broadband deployment in rural and underserved areas. Specifically, the bill mandates that within 180 days of enactment, the FCC must create rules to evaluate potential funding recipients based on their technical, financial, and operational capabilities. Applicants must submit detailed proposals demonstrating they have a reasonable business plan and can successfully deploy broadband networks meeting the FCC's performance requirements. The evaluation will consider established technical and financial standards, including the Digital Opportunity Data Collection standards, and will examine the applicant's past performance in government broadband funding programs. Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for pre-authorization defaults, setting a minimum fine of $9,000 per violation and requiring that penalties be at least 30% of the applicant's total support, unless the FCC can justify a lower penalty. The goal is to ensure that universal service funds are awarded to qualified entities capable of effectively expanding broadband access in rural communities.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/98/all-info