FEDERAL C OMM U N ICAT IONS C OMMISSION W ASHI NGTON O FFIC E OF T HE CHA I R MAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Richard Blumenthal United States Senate 706 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Blumenthal: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Richard Blumenthal in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMMUNICATIONS C OMMISSION W A SHI NGT ON OFFI CE OF TH E CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Cory Booker United States Senate 717 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Booker: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 appUcations from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Cory Booker in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F EDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Maria Cantwell United States Senate 511 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Cantwell: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Maria Cantwell in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C O M M U N ICAT IONS C OMMISSION WAS H INGTON OFFI CE OF TH E CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Tom Cole U.S. House of Representatives 2467 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Cole: Thank you for your Jetter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVlD-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Tom Cole in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMMUNI C ATIONS C OMM ISSION WASH I NGT ON O FFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Ed Case U.S. House of Representatives 2443 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Case: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses- as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Ed Case in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F EDE RAL C O M M UNIC ATIONS C OMM ISSION W ASH IN GTON O F FICE O F THE C H AIR MAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Sharice Davids U.S. House of Representatives 1541 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congresswoman Davids: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an addjtional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Sharice Davids in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FED ERAL C OMMUNICAT IO NS C OMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Suzan DelBene U.S. House of Representatives 2442 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congresswoman DelBene: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fu11y recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award oflicenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are smaH businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Suzan DelBene in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDE R A L C OMM U NICAT IO NS C OMM ISSION W A SHI NGT ON OFFICE OF THE C H AIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Anna G. Eshoo U.S. House of Representatives 202 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congresswoman Eshoo: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delay ing the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Anna G. Eshoo in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDER A L C OMMUN IC ATI O N S C OMMISSION W A SH IN GTON OFFI CE OF THE CHAI RMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Ruben Gallego U.S. House of Representatives 1218 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Gallego: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commi ssion delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Ruben Gallego in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMMUNICATIONS C OMMISSION WASHI NGT ON OFFICE O F THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Raul M. Grijalva U.S. House of Representatives 1511 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Grijalva: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID- 19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Raúl M. Grijalva in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F EDERA L C OMMUN IC ATIONS C OMM IS S ION WASH INGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Debra Haaland U.S. House of Representatives 1237 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congresswoman Haaland: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use thi s spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Debra Haaland in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMM ISSION WASHINGTON OFFI CE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Kamala D. Harris United States Senate 112 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Harris: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVTD-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVTD-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as Jong as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVTD-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Kamala D. Harris in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMMUNICATIONS C OMMISSION WASHINGT ON OFFICE OF TH E CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Martin Heinrich United States Senate 303 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Heinrich: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVJD-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVlD-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVlD-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Martin Heinrich in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMMUNICATIONS C O M MI S S ION W ASHI N GTON OFFI CE OF T HE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Mazie K. Hirono United States Senate 730 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Hirono: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are smaJI businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Mazie K. Hirono in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERA L C OMMUN IC ATIONS C O M M ISSION WASHI N G TON OFFI CE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Steven Horsford U.S. House of Representatives 1330 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Horsford: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID- 19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID- 19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Steven Horsford in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDE RAL C OMM U N ICATIONS C O M MISSION W A SHI NGT ON OFFICE OF T HE C HAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Jared Huffman U.S. House of Representatives 1406 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Huffman: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVlD-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Jared Huffman in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMMUNICAT IO NS C OMMISSION WASH INGT ON OFFICE O F THE C H A I R M AN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Tim Kaine United States Senate 231 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Kaine: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVlD-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in Jight of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Tim Kaine in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F EDERA L C OMM U NICATI ONS C OMMISS ION WASHINGTON O FFICE OF T HE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Derek Kilmer U.S. House of Representatives 1520 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Kilmer: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses- as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Derek Kilmer in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FE D E ~AL C OMMUNICAT IONS C OMMI S SION W A S HI N G TON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Angus King United States Senate 133 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator King: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID- 19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantiaJJy delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVlD-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Angus King in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F EDERA L COMMUN ICAT ION S C OMM ISSION W ASHINGT ON OFFICE OF T HE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Amy Klobuchar United States Senate 425 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Klobuchar: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from ApriJ 9 to ApriJ 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Amy Klobuchar in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERA L C OM M UN ICATION S C OMMISSION WASHI N GTON OFFICE OF T HE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Ben Ray Lujan U.S. House of Representatives 2231 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Lujan: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COYID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Ben Ray Luján in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMM U NICAT ION S COMM I SSI O N WASH INGTON OFFICE O F T HE C H AIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Edward J. Markey United States Senate 255 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Markey: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses- as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as Jong as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Edward J. Markey in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FED E RAL C OMMUNICAT IONS C OMMI S SION WASH I N GTON OFFICE OF TH E CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Catherine Cortez Masto United States Senate 516 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Cortez Masto: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. 1 have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVlD-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. ln March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23 , 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Catherine Cortez Masto in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FED E RAL C OMM U NICATIONS C OMMISSION W ASHING T O N OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Betty McCollum U.S. House of Representatives 2256 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congresswoman McCollum: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction I 05 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Betty McCollum in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F E DERAL C OMMUNICATIONS C OMM ISSION WASHINGT ON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Jeff Merkley United States Senate 313 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Merkley: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. l have seen for myself what affordable high- s peed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (incJuding contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. Jn March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not reguJarly participate Page 2  The Honorable Jeff Merkley in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDER AL C OMMUNICAT IONS C OMMISSION WASHI NGT O N OFFI CE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Patty Murray United States Senate 154 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Murray: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its fami lies, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the RuraJ Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many ofwhom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Patty Murray in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FED ERAL C OMMU NICAT IONS COMMISSION W ASH INGTON OFFICE O F THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Jacky Rosen United States Senate 144 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Rosen: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses- as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federaJly recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction I 05 , the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Jacky Rosen in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERA L C OMMU N ICAT ION S COMMISSIO N WAS HI N GTON OFFICE O F THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Brian Schatz United States Senate 722 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Schatz: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate ---- ------------------ -~ - - Page 2  The Honorable Brian Schatz in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUN ICA T IO N S C OMMISSION WASH IN G T ON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Tina Smith United States Senate 720 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Smith: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-1 9 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-1 9 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are smaJI businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Tina Smith in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FED ERA L C OMM UNICATIONS C OMMISSION WAS HINGTON OFFICE OF TH E CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Greg Stanton U.S. House of Representatives 128 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Stanton: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. 1 also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVlD-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Greg Stanton in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDE R A L C OM M UN ICATIONS COMMISSIO N W AS HIN G T ON OFFICE OF THE CHAI R MAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Tom Udall United States Senate 531 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Udall: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community-for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVlD-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Tom Udall in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL C OMM U NICAT IONS C OMMI S SION WASHINGTON OFFI CE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Mark Warner United States Senate 703 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Warner: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23 , 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate - -----==~ Page 2  The Honorable Mark Warner in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FED ERAL C OMMUNICATIONS C OMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFI CE OF THE CHAIRMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Elizabeth Warren United States Senate 317 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Warren: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVTD-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. Tn March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23 , 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Elizabeth Warren in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FE D E RAL C OMM U N ICATIONS COMM I SS ION W ASHINGTON O FFICE OF T H E CHAI RMAN August 24, 2020 The Honorable Ron Wyden United States Senate 221 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Wyden: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Ron Wyden in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. F E D ERAL C OM M UNICATIONS C O M MISSION W ASH I NGTON OFFICE O F THE CHAIRMA N August 24, 2020 The Honorable Don Young U.S. House of Representatives 2314 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Young: Thank you for your letter regarding the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window. Closing the digital divide is my top priority as Chairman. I have seen for myself what affordable high­ speed Internet access can do for a community- for its families, its schools, its hospitals, its farms, its businesses-as well as the impact of its absence. I also fully recognize the importance of broadband and telecommunications services in Tribal communities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window, which opened February 3, presents a unique opportunity for eligible Tribal entities to obtain licenses for prime mid-band spectrum that can help Tribes address their connectivity needs. While the application window was originally scheduled to close on August 3, in light of the COVTD-19 pandemic, it was extended an additional 30-days until 6 pm EDT on September 2, 2020. This 30-day extension strikes an appropriate balance between providing more time for additional Tribal entities to apply and not unduly delaying the grant of licenses to those that already have applied. The Commission cannot begin the process of issuing licenses to eligible applicants until after the window closes, because we will not know the extent of mutually exclusive applications for as long as the window is open. A much longer extension would therefore substantially delay our award of licenses to Tribal entities and thus delay their ability to use this spectrum to connect those consumers living on Tribal lands. Moreover, in light of the simplified application process as well as the extensive outreach done by Commission staff (including contacting every single federally recognized Tribe and Alaska Native Village the month before the window opened, first by phone or other direct contact, and a second time by letter), a lengthy extension of the deadline is unnecessary. Indeed, the Commission has already received over 333 applications from Tribal entities during the window. Furthermore, our decision to extend the Rural Tribal Priority Window by 30 days is consistent with actions we have taken to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of other recent spectrum auctions. In March, the Commission postponed certain dates and deadlines for participation in Auction 105, the auction of Priority Access Licenses for the 3550- 3650 MHz band. The Commission delayed the deadline for filing short-form applications to participate in the auction by 14 days (from April 9 to April 23, 2020) and the auction start date by 28 days (from June 25 to July 23, 2020). And with these delays, Auction 105 attracted 271 qualified bidders, many of whom are small businesses or entities that do not regularly participate Page 2  The Honorable Don Young in FCC auctions. Moreover, the Commission s decision to postpone indefinitely Auction 106 (an auction for FM broadcast construction permits) was based on unique factors not at issue here related to auction design and planning, potential issues with Commission staff resources, and the prioritization of scheduled auctions. While interim steps such as Special Temporary Authority (STA) can allow Tribes with existing wireless infrastructure to quickly expand capacity for a short period of time, these temporary measures do not provide the certainty needed to support long-term investments in broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas. STAs authorize a limited time use of spectrum on a secondary, non-interference basis, with no protection from interference and no assurance of continued use; they thus do not provide the longer-term assurance associated with a formal license that can enable substantial investment decisions. Indeed, delaying further the ability of Tribes to obtain a formal license could adversely impact Tribes access to funding opportunities and resources needed to support their planned deployments. Commission staff continues to work hard on this initiative, enabling eligible Tribal entities to apply and avail themselves of its benefits as soon as possible. We encourage potential Tribal applicants to make inquiries via e-mail to RuralTribalWindow@fcc.gov so that Commission staff can answer any questions they might have about the application process. Again, I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.