cteongrt55 of tf)t 1Jnittb ~tatt5 'Qmasf.Jington, J)(( 20510 The Honorable Torn Wheeler Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20554 Dear Chairman Wheeler: October 7, 2014 Rural communities depend on broadband Internet access for their economic and social needs. The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Phase II of the Connect America Fund (CAF II) would bring a faster fiber-based broadband to more than 8,500 households in Utah. In implementing its CAF II objectives, we ask that the Commission allow flexibility in its build-out and funding requirements as it increases the broadband speed requirement from 4 Mbps to 10 Mbps. We also ask that you reconsider previously disqualified rural communities for CAF [J support and ensure funding is targeted to underserved areas and not subsidizing areas where private investment already exists. Doing so will ensure that the Commission accomplishes its objectives. As stated in the latest CAF II final notice of proposed rulemaking, increasing the broadband speed requirement to 1 OMbps would increase the number of households in rural areas that could benefit under CAF II. It is commendable and advisable that the Commission achieve these goals without increasing the CAF ll annual budget. Finally, it is imperative that the Commission ensure that undcrserved communities are not wrongfully over looked. Customers who were initially disqualified from broadband access based on untested assertions from providers with line of sight and capacity issues should be reconsidered for C/\F 11 support. Now in its final phase, CAF II can still reach these customers. Letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheel~r October 7, 2014 ' ' · By increasing the speed requirement, ensuring flexibility, and extending CAF II support to a wider rural community, the Commission will successfully accomplish its objectives and much of rural America will benefit. Sincerely, Senator MichaelS. Lee Senator Orrin G. Hatch Representative Jason Chaffetz Representative Chris Stewart