FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRWOMAN January 23, 2023 The Honorable Troy Balderson U.S. House of Representatives 2429 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Balderson: Thank you for your letter regarding the efforts of the Federal Communications Commission to promote broadband deployment and competition—specifically as it relates to pole attachment rules and processes. Gaining access to poles in a quick, predictable, and affordable way can help speed the deployment of broadband infrastructure, including, as you note, in rural areas of the country. Last year, the Commission unanimously issued a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that sought comment on questions concerning the allocation of pole replacement costs between utilities and attachers. In particular, we sought comment about whether we need to provide greater clarity when a pole must be replaced before additional attachments are possible, and on other economic and legal issues that may arise with pole replacements. The Further Notice also sought comment on whether there are other reforms we can make to speed up the process for negotiations over pole replacements and attachments, because certainty is good both for the providers seeking to build broadband networks and for the owners of utility poles. Commission staff is currently reviewing the record in this proceeding. Please be assured that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders as the Commission deliberates on the appropriate course of action. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Jessica Rosenworcel