Media Contact: 
Mark Wigfield, (202) 418-0253
mark.wigfield@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC PROPOSES IMPROVEMENTS TO BROADBAND & VOICE 
SERVICES DATA COLLECTION
Also Considers Eliminating Unnecessary and Burdensome Collection Requirements
  
WASHINGTON, August 3, 2017 – The Federal Communications Commission is exploring ways 
to improve the quality, accuracy, and usefulness of the data it collects on fixed and mobile voice 
and broadband service.
At the same time, the Commission is examining how it can reduce burdens on industry by 
eliminating unnecessary or onerous data filing requirements. A Further Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking adopted by the FCC today seeks comment on proposals to accomplish both these 
goals as part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to improve the value of the data it collects.
Accurate and reliable data on fixed and mobile service are critical to sound decision-making and 
a vital tool in developing policies to close the digital divide, promote competition, and more. The 
FCC established its deployment data collection program in 2000, and requires providers to file 
the information on FCC Form 477 twice a year. The FCC from the outset of the collection has
worked with industry, researchers and advocates to identify revisions that would improve quality 
and ease burdens. 
The initial comment period ends 30 days after publication of the Further Notice in the Federal 
Register, and the reply period ends 45 days after publication. For more information about the 
FCC’s Form 477 data program, visit https://www.fcc.gov/general/broadband-deployment-data-
fcc-form-477.
Action by the Commission August 3, 2017 by Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 17-
103). Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn and O’Rielly approving and issuing separate 
statements.
WC Docket No. 11-10
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Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500
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This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes 
official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).