FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Amy Kiobuchar United States Senate 302 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Kiobuchar: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that uimecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6,2018 The Honorable Angus King United States Senate 133 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator King: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Ben Sasse United States Senate 386A Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Sasse: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over 500 million to increasing deployment by small calTiers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6,2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Bill Cassidy United States Senate 703 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Cassidy: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v' Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Bill Nelson United States Senate 716 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Nelson: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Bob Casey United States Senate 393 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Casey: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. Tn March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, o Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAiRMAN The Honorable Catherine Cortez Masto United States Senate B40A Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Cortez Masto: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, AjitV. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6,2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Charles E. Grassley United States Senate 135 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Grassley: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, AJ1tV.I-'al FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Cindy Hyde-Smith United States Senate G12 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Hyde-Smith: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Claire McCaskill United States Senate 730 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator McCaskill: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V. AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Cory Gardner United States Senate 354 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Gardner: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIHNIAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Deb Fischer United States Senate 454 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Fischer: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunityto all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6,2018 The Honorable Debbie Stabenow United States Senate 731 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Stabenow: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. Tn March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, il FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Dianne Feinstein United States Senate 331 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Feinstein: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, vs fl AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Gary Peters United States Senate 724 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Peters: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, VI Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Heidi Heitkamp United States Senate 110 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Heitkamp: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, " jitv. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6,2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable James Lankford United States Senate 316 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Lankford: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient maimer. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable James M. Inhofe United States Senate 205 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Inhofe: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6,2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Jeanne Shaheen United States Senate 506 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Shaheen: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these calTiers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Jeff Merkley United States Senate 313 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Merkley: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high..speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. Tn April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Jerry Moran United States Senate 521 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Moran: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Jim Risch United States Senate 483 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Risch: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, I.' itV.Pai\IV7J FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Joe Donnelly United States Senate 720 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Donnelly: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Joe Manchin United States Senate 306 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Manchin: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Barrasso United States Senate 307 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Barrasso: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over 500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, I) Ajit V. Pai y (j FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Boozman United States Senate 141 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Boozman: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based calTiers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, k AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Comyn United States Senate 517 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Cornyn: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-calTier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6,2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Hoeven United States Senate 338 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Hoeven: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v'JJ AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable John N. Kennedy United States Senate Bli Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Kennedy: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these calTiers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Thune United States Senate 511 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Thune: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, kV AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS CoMMIsSIoN WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Johnny Isakson United States Senate 131 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Jsakson: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, [I I' I (J FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Jon Tester United States Senate 311 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Tester: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6,2018 The Honorable Kirsten Gillibrand United States Senate 478 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Gillibrand: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient maimer. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, I1- v' Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Lindsey Graham United States Senate 290 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Graham: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, [1 'Iv' AjitV.Pai 0 FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Maggie Hassan United States Senate B85 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Hassan: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. f't FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Marco Rubio United States Senate 284 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Rubio: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient maimer. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that uimecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Maria Cantwell United States Senate 511 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Cantwell: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, 1K [ AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Mark Warner United States Senate 475 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Warner: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, /1 I v' AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Michael B. Enzi United States Senate 379A Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Enzi: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Michael Bennet United States Senate 261 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Bennet: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Michael D. Crapo United States Senate 239 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Crapo: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Mike Rounds United States Senate 502 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Rounds: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. Tn March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that uimecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6,2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Pat Roberts United States Senate 109 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Roberts: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if! can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, o Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Patrick J. Leahy United States Senate 437 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Leahy: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6,2018 The Honorable Patty Murray United States Senate 154 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Murray: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that uimecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6,2018 The Honorable Richard J. Durbin United States Senate 711 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Durbin: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Richard M. Burr United States Senate 217 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Burr: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Rob Portman United States Senate 448 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Portman: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS CoMMissioN WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Roger Wicker United States Senate 555 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Wicker: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. Tn March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Ron Johnson United States Senate 328 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Johnson: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, vi Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Ron Wyden United States Senate 221 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Wyden: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Roy Blunt United States Senate 260 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Blunt: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient maimer. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Shelley Moore Capito United States Senate 172 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Capito: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ok^vAjit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Steve Dames United States Senate 320 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Dames: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, I.' AjitV.Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Susan Collins United States Senate 413 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Collins: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient marmer. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural calTiers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tammy Baldwin United States Senate 717 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Baldwin: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Tammy Duckworth United States Senate G12 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Duckworth: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Thom Tillis United States Senate 185 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Tillis: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small calTiers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tim Kaine United States Senate 231 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Kaine: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tim Scott United States Senate 520 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Scott: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these caiTiers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 6, 2018 The Honorable Tina Smith United States Senate 309 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Smith: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Todd Young United States Senate B33 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Young: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF August 6, 2018 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tom Cotton United States Senate 124 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Cotton: Thank you for your letter on the importance of high-speed broadband access to rural Americans. I wholeheartedly agree that closing the digital divide is our foremost mission as an agency, and I appreciate your recognition of the work the Commission completed earlier this year to foster further deployment in the most remote corners of our country. In March, the Commission devoted over $500 million to increasing deployment by small carriers in rural communities-a reversal of the prior Administration's policy of punishing these carriers instead of rewarding them for providing high-speed, high-quality services. As part of that action, we also doubled down on our model-based support for hard-to-serve communities, increasing the funding for carriers willing to build out in an efficient manner. In April, we then moved forward by proposing to eliminate many of the legacy burdens for small, model-based carriers serving businesses in rural American-burdens that unnecessarily divert funding from build-out to paperwork. And in June, we eliminated a rule that penalized small rural carriers with extra Universal Service fees whenever they offered broadband. Nonetheless, I agree with you that more must be done if we're going to extend digital opportunity to all Americans. That's why in March the Commission issued a detailed Notice of Proposed Ruling that explores how to ensure sufficient and predictable support over the long term. I agree with you that we must take a close look at expanding access to and funding for our small-carrier cost model and that we must end the unpredictable cuts to carriers not on the model. Increased funding will boost broadband deployment in rural America, and the additional reforms will put our high-cost system on a more efficient path so that every American can benefit from the digital revolution. Commission staff is carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding, and I aim to circulate an order ensuring adequate and efficient funding for rural broadband deployment later this year. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.