FCC Extends Performance Deadlines for 2.5 GHz Tribal Licensees
The FCC Wireless Bureau waived the tribal-specific interim and final performance deadlines for all 2.5 GHz rural tribal priority window licensees. Tribal window licensees still must make an interim showing within four years of the initial license grant and a…
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final showing within eight years, though “they need not wait until the relevant deadlines approach to make their filings,” the bureau said Friday. The FCC had required an interim showing within two years, the final showing within five. So far, the bureau said it has granted 335 licenses to entities “representing more than 350 unique Tribes in 30 states.” The bureau said it took the step because of problems beyond the control of the tribes. “While the COVID-19 pandemic made clear the vital importance of broadband to Tribal communities, it also disproportionally impacted Tribes, resulting in personnel and resource barriers that have exacerbated existing challenges to deploying communications services in those communities,” the waiver order said: “Supply chain issues have made it more difficult for some Tribes to obtain wireless and related infrastructure equipment, and increased prices for the equipment that is available.” The application window closed in September 2020 (see 2008210050). Commissioners Jessica Rosenworcel and Geoffrey Starks, Public Knowledge and tribal groups pushed for keeping the window open longer due to the COVID-19 pandemic (see 2007310066).