NATOA Urges the FCC to Include Local Government Programs in Emergency Connectivity Fund

NATOA filed Reply Comments in the FCC’s docket to establish rules implementing the $7.171 billion Emergency Connectivity Fund, which Congress enacted as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.  NATOA’s filing urges the Commission to allow local governments’ bulk purchasing and sponsored services programs to be eligible for funding and to ensure services can be provided to public places like parks, community centers and other facilities that have served as remote learning hubs during the pandemic. NATOA also asks the Commission to reconsider its proposal to prohibit use of funds for self-provisioned networks.