KEVIN CRAMER NORTH DAKOTA WASHINGTON 0 .C . 0FF1CE: 1 032 LONGWORTH BUILDING WASHINGTON , D C 20515 202-225-261 1 BISMARCK OFFICE: 220 EAST ROSSER A VENUE SUITE 328 BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA 58501 701-224-0355 December 11, 2015 CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WASHINGTON , DC 20515 The Honorable Thomas Wheeler Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 121h Street SW Washington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Wheeler: FARGO OFFICE: 3217 FIECHTNER DRIVE, SUITE D FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA 581 03 701 -356-221 6 MINOT OFFICE: 315 MAIN STREET SOUTH, SUITE 203 MINOT, NORTH DAKOTA 58701 701 -839-0255 GRAND FORKS OFFICE: CENT ER F O R INNOVAT IO N FOUNDATION BUILDING 4200 JAMES RAY DRIVE, O FFICE 600 GRAND FORKS, N ORTH DAKOTA 58202 701-738-4880 On May 12, 2015, I wrote you a letter that was signed by 114 of my colleagues in the House, calling on the FCC to implement standalone broadband reform for rate-of-return carriers receiving USF disbursements. Access to broadband technology is critical to the growth and development of our rural communities. Unfortunately, out-of-date USF mechanisms continue to penalize rate-of­ return carriers whose customers demand standalone broadband plans. Solving the standalone broadband challenge is an important goal which enjoys bipartisan support in Congress. For this reason, I was heartened when you responded to my letter with a promise that a standalone broadband fix would be completed by the end of this year. Unfortunately, as we approach year's end, the FCC appears unlikely to meet this goal. I want to reiterate the immediacy of the standalone broadband challenge and the necessity for timely FCC action to promote broader consumer choice in rural America through standalone broadband reform. At the same time, it is important that any changes to USF mechanisms be thoroughly considered and thoughtfully weighed by the FCC and its stakeholders. Throughout this year, the FCC staff has diligently worked with rural stakeholders to develop a two­ path approach to broader USF reform for rate-of-return carriers. Notable progress has been made on these reforms, including a proposed fix to the standalone broadband issue. But significant policy questions remain unresolved, particularly in relation to the FCC' s bifurcated approach to the USF support mechanism. Due to the importance of a strong USF system for rural America, I caution against rushed decision-making on these difficult questions. Better a tardy decision which gets these CRAMER . HOUSE.GOV 1215 details right the first time, than a poor decision immediately which harms our rural carriers and their customers moving forward. However, should the FCC and rate-of­ return stakeholders fail to reach a consensus on broader USF rate-of-return reform questions; I urge the FCC to fulfill its commitment to standalone broadband reform. Thank you for your work to improve broadband access throughout America. I look forward to hearing from you regarding the standalone broadband challenge and more comprehensive USF reform. Kevin Cramer U.S. Congressman CC: Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, Commissioner Ajit Pai, Commissioner Michael O'Rielly