Bridggita    Table of Contents INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY OF REQUEST .......................................... 5 Organizational Chart ................................................................................................................................. 11 Fiscal Year 2024 Proposed Appropriation Language ............................................................................... 12 Legislative Proposals ................................................................................................................................ 13 Summary of FYs 2022 - 2024 FTEs and Funding by Bureaus and Offices.............................................. 14 FTEs by Resource Category ..................................................................................................................... 15 Number of Contractors ............................................................................................................................. 15 FTEs - Historical and Estimated ............................................................................................................... 16 Summary of Changes - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) ............................................................ 17 Narrative Explanation of Changes - Salaries and Expenses - Regulatory Fees ........................................ 18 Office of Inspector General Narrative ...................................................................................................... 20 Universal Service Fund Activities and Costs ............................................................................................ 21 Overall Status of Audit Recommendations ............................................................................................... 24 Crosswalk - Summary of Changes for Regulatory Fees ........................................................................... 25 SPECTRUM AUCTIONS ...................................................................................... 27 Spectrum Auctions Program - Explanation of Requested Change ........................................................... 29 Spectrum Auctions Program ..................................................................................................................... 30 Spectrum Auctions Activities ................................................................................................................... 38 Summary of Distribution of Resources - Spectrum Auctions Program .................................................... 38 Spectrum Auctions Expenditures Report .................................................................................................. 39 Spectrum Auctions and Cash Collected/Generated by Fiscal Year .......................................................... 42 Spectrum Auctions Program – Cash Collected/Generated vs. Expenditures ............................................ 43 Crosswalk - Summary of Changes for Spectrum Auctions Program ........................................................ 43 Budget Authorities Already Provided ................................................................... 45 COVID-19 Telehealth Program ................................................................................................................ 45 Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (Broadband DATA) Act and Broadband Deployment Locations Map ................................................................................................... 46 Secure & Trusted Communications Network Reimbursement Program .................................................. 50 Emergency Broadband Connectivity Fund-Emergency Broadband Benefit Program and Affordable Connectivity Fund-Affordable Connectivity Program.............................................................................. 51 Emergency Connectivity Fund ................................................................................................................. 53 1 Summary Activities for Other Budget Authorities Received in FYs 2020, 2021, & 2022 ....................... 55 Summary of Commission’s All Other Budget Authorities ....................................................................... 56 ECONOMY ACT REIMBURSABLE AGREEMENTS ..................................... 57 FEE COLLECTIONS ............................................................................................ 59 Regulatory Fees ........................................................................................................................................ 61 Availability of Regulatory Fees ................................................................................................................ 61 Historical Distribution of Appropriated Budget Authority – Regulatory Fees ......................................... 62 Historical Appropriated Budget Authority – Spectrum Auctions Program .............................................. 63 Application Processing Fees ..................................................................................................................... 63 PERFORMANCE PLAN ....................................................................................... 65 FISCAL YEAR 2024 REQUIREMENTS BY BUREAUS AND OFFICES ...... 97 Offices of the Chairwoman and Commissioners ...................................................................................... 99 Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau ......................................................................................... 100 Enforcement Bureau ............................................................................................................................... 103 International Bureau ................................................................................................................................ 106 Media Bureau .......................................................................................................................................... 108 Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau ........................................................................................ 109 Wireless Telecommunications Bureau .................................................................................................... 111 Wireline Competition Bureau ................................................................................................................. 113 Office of Administrative Law Judges ..................................................................................................... 116 Office of Communications Business Opportunities ................................................................................ 118 Office of Economics and Analytics ........................................................................................................ 120 Office of Engineering and Technology ................................................................................................... 122 Office of General Counsel ...................................................................................................................... 124 Office of Legislative Affairs ................................................................................................................... 126 Office of the Managing Director ............................................................................................................. 128 Office of Media Relations ....................................................................................................................... 130 Office of Workplace Diversity ................................................................................................................ 131 Office of Inspector General..................................................................................................................... 133 APPENDICES ....................................................................................................... 135 Summary - Requested Resources ............................................................................................................ 137 Summary - Distribution of Resources ..................................................................................................... 139 Summary - Distribution of Resources by Strategic Goals ...................................................................... 146 2 Allocation of Obligations by Budget Object Class Code........................................................................ 147 EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ................................................................................ 149 Award Spending Estimates ..................................................................................................................... 151 Universal Service Fund Exhibit .............................................................................................................. 152 Telecommunications Relay Service Fund Exhibit .................................................................................. 153 GAO – IG Act Audit List ........................................................................................................................ 154 Response to Congressional Inquiries Concerning GAO Recommendation ............................................ 171 3 This page is intentionally left blank 4 INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY OF REQUEST 5 This page is intentionally left blank 6 INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY OF REQUEST The Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission) is pleased to present its fiscal year (FY) 2024 budget request. The FCC is an independent regulatory agency of the United States Government. The FCC is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The Commission also regulates telecommunications and advanced communication services and video programming for people with disabilities, as set forth in various sections of the Communications Act. As specified in section 1 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, the FCC’s mission is to “make available, so far as possible, to all the people of the United States, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex, rapid, efficient, Nation-wide, and world-wide wire and radio communication service with adequate facilities at reasonable charges.”1 In addition, section 1 provides that the Commission was created “for the purpose of the national defense” and “for the purpose of promoting safety of life and property through the use of wire and radio communications.”2 The FCC is directed by five Commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate for five-year terms, except when filling the unexpired term of a previous Commissioner. Only three Commissioners can be from the same political party at any given time. The President designates one of the Commissioners to serve as the Chairperson. The FCC’s vision is to pursue policies to bring affordable, reliable high-speed broadband to 100 percent of the country and encourage the private sector to build, maintain, and upgrade next- generation networks so that the benefits of advanced communications services are available to all Americans. The FCC will work to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; empowering consumers; enhancing public safety and national security; and advancing America’s global competitiveness. Furthermore, in FY 2024, the FCC will continue to improve its processes to deliver on the needs of today and the future in a more proactive and efficient manner to maintain a current high level of performance. Through these reform efforts, the Commission will develop and implement changes that focus the Commission on effectively and efficiently leveraging human capital to deliver on programs that are the highest need to citizens and where there is a unique Federal role. For FY 2024, the Commission is requesting the budget and personnel amounts that are summarized in the bullets and a table below: The Commission requests $410,743,000 in budget authority from regulatory fee offsetting collections. This request represents an increase of $20,551,000 or 5.3 percent from the FY 2023 appropriated level of $390,192,000. 1 47 U.S.C. § 151. 2 Id. 7 The Commission requests $136,167,000 in budget authority for the spectrum auctions program. This request represents an increase of $3,936,000 or 3 percent from the FY 2023 appropriated level of $132,231,000. As of January 31, 2023, the Commission’s spectrum auctions program has generated over $233.5 billion for government use; at the same time, the total cost of the auctions program has been less than $2.5 billion or 1.1 percent of the total auctions’ revenue. In creating a lean, accountable, and efficient Commission that works for the American people, the Commission requests 1,600 Full Time Equivalents (FTEs) funded by budget authority from regulatory fee offsetting collections, spectrum auctions program, and other budget authorities provided by President and Congress. This FTE level is same as the FY 2023 appropriated and enacted level. With this FTE level, the Commission will meet its mission demands in FY 2024. (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2023 FY 2024 Change in Request Estimates to FTEs1 Enacted FTEs1 FTEs1 Amount Congress Budget Authority - Offsetting Collections: Regulatory Fees - Commission2 1,540 $378,061 1,540 $398,057 0 $19,996 Regulatory Fees - Office of Inspector General (OIG) 60 $12,131 60 $12,686 0 $555 Subtotal - Offsetting Collections 1,600 $390,192 1,600 $410,743 0 $20,551 Budget Authority - Other Offsetting Collections: Auction Cost Recovery Reimbursement - Commission $132,231 $136,167 $3,936 Auction Cost Recovery Reimbursement - OIG $0 $0 $0 Subtotal - Auction Cost Recovery Reimbursement $132,231 $136,167 $3,936 Subtotal - Salaries and Expenses $522,423 $546,910 $24,487 Budget Authority - Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements: Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements $4,000 $4,000 $0 Subtotal - Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements $4,000 $4,000 $0 Total Gross Proposed Budget Authority2 1,600 $526,423 1,600 $550,910 0 $24,487 1The FTE numbers include Auctions Program FTEs. Refer to page 15 for a breakdown of FTEs between Regulatory Fees and Auctions Program FTEs. 2The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 8 In furtherance of these objectives and the FCC’s mission, the FY 2024 budget request will be used to support the following Strategic Goals for FY 2024: Strategic Goal 1: Pursue a “100 Percent” Broadband Policy The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the serious broadband gaps that exist across the country, including in rural infrastructure, affordability for low-income Americans, and at-home access for students. This continuing digital divide means millions of Americans do not have meaningful access to essential infrastructure for 21st century success. In response to the challenges that many Americans face, the agency should advance access to communications that are essential for Americans to work remotely, learn remotely, receive healthcare, and engage in commerce. To this end, the FCC will pursue policies to help bring affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband to 100 percent of the country. Strategic Goal 2: Promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility The FCC will seek to gain a deeper understanding of how the agency’s rules, policies, and programs may promote or inhibit advances in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. The FCC will pursue focused action and investments to eliminate historical, systemic, and structural barriers that perpetuate disadvantaged or underserved individuals and communities. In so doing, the FCC will work to ensure equitable and inclusive access and facilitate the ability of underserved individuals and communities to leverage and benefit from the wide range of opportunities made possible by digital technologies, media, communication services, and next-generation networks. In addition, the FCC recognizes that it is more effective when its workforce reflects the experience, judgement, and input of individuals from many different backgrounds. Advancing equity is core to the agency’s management and policymaking processes and will benefit all Americans. Strategic Goal 3: Empower Consumers Consumers who are well informed about their rights and what they’re buying are more confident and more likely to participate in the digital economy. The FCC will tackle new challenges to consumer rights and opportunities stemming from digital transitions. The FCC also will pursue effective enforcement and new approaches to protect consumers from unwanted and intrusive communications, phone-based scams, telephone privacy issues, and other trends that affect consumers. The FCC will work to enhance competition and pursue policies that protect the competitive process to improve consumer choice and access to information. The FCC will work to foster a regulatory landscape that fosters media competition, diversity, and localism. The FCC also must work to ensure the availability of quality, functionally equivalent communications services for persons with disabilities. Strategic Goal 4: Enhance Public Safety and National Security There is no task at the FCC that is more important than keeping the American people safe. The FCC will pursue policies to promote the availability of secure, reliable, interoperable, redundant, and rapidly restorable critical communications infrastructure and services. The FCC also will promote the public’s access to reliable 911, emergency alerting, and first responder communications. The FCC will work to ensure the continued availability of timely emergency 9 alerts. The FCC will work in coordination with Federal and state, local, Tribal, and territorial government partners and industry stakeholders to support disaster response and to ensure the nation’s defense and homeland security. Strategic Goal 5: Advance America’s Global Competitiveness The FCC will take action to promote investment and advance the development and deployment of new communications technologies, such as 5G, that will allow the nation to remain a global leader in an increasingly competitive, international marketplace. The FCC will identify incentives and policies to close security gaps and accelerate trustworthy innovation. The FCC will work with its federal partners to advocate for US interests abroad. Strategic Goal 6: Foster Operational Excellence The FCC should be a model for excellence in government by effectively managing its resources, maintaining a commitment to transparent and responsive processes that encourage public involvement and decision-making that best serves the public interest, and encouraging a culture of collaboration both internally and across government agencies. Additional Useful Information to Better Understand the Budget Request Below is some additional useful information for readers to better understand the information presented in the Commission’s budget request: • FY 2022 numbers presented are actuals. • FY 2023 numbers presented are the appropriated and enacted numbers. • The FTE numbers included in the charts in Fiscal Year 2024 Requirements by Bureaus and Offices section also include FTEs from the Spectrum Auctions Program, and other budget authorities provided by the President and Congress, but the personnel compensation and benefits dollar amount only represent personnel compensation and benefits dollars from S&E - Regulatory Fees Offsetting Collections. 10 Organizational Chart 11 Fiscal Year 2024 Proposed Appropriation Language For necessary expenses of the Federal Communications Commission, as authorized by law, including uniforms and allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 5901–5902; not to exceed $4,000 for official reception and representation expenses; purchase and hire of motor vehicles; special counsel fees; and services as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, $410,743,000, to remain available until expended: Provided, That $410,743,000 of offsetting collections shall be assessed and collected pursuant to section 9 of title I of the Communications Act of 1934, shall be retained and used for necessary expenses and shall remain available until expended: Provided further, That the sum above appropriated shall be reduced as such offsetting collections are received during fiscal year 2024 so as to result in a final fiscal year 2024 salaries and expenses appropriation estimated at $0: Provided further, That, notwithstanding 47 U.S.C. 309(j)(8)(B), proceeds from the use of a competitive bidding system that may be retained and made available for obligation shall not exceed $136,167,000 for fiscal year 2024: Provided further, That, of the amount appropriated under this heading, not less than $12,686,000 shall be for the salaries and expenses of the Office of Inspector General. 12 Legislative Proposals The Administration is proposing legislative change in the President’s FY 2024 Budget that pertain to the FCC. This proposal is designed to make more spectrum available for commercial use and represent sound economic policy. Spectrum Auction Authority The Commission’s auction authority for spectrum originally was scheduled to expire in FY 1998; however, it was extended through FY 2007 in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, P.L. 105-33; extended through FY 2011 by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, P.L. 109-171; extended through FY 2012 by the DTV Delay Act (2012), P.L. 111-4; extended through FY 2022 by the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012, P.L. 112-96; extended through December 16, 2022 by the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Acct, 2023, P.L. 117- 180; extended through December 23, 2022 by the Further Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023, P.L. 117-229; extended through December 30, 2022 by the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023, P.L 117-264; and extended through March 9, 2023 by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, P.L. 117-328. Furthermore, in the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015 (included as Title X in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, P.L. 114-74), the Commission’s auction authority with respect only to electromagnetic spectrum identified under section 1004(a) of that Act was extended until September 30, 2025; and with respect only to the electromagnetic spectrum identified under section 90008(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was extended until November 15, 2028. Absent an extension of its auction authority for spectrum, the Commission’s authority to grant licenses or construction permits for stations using spectrum subject to mutually exclusive application using competitive bidding will terminate on March 9, 2023, except for spectrum identified pursuant to the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015 and IIJA. The budget proposes to extend the FCC’s auction authority for ten years through 2033. 13 Summary of FYs 2022 - 2024 FTEs and Funding by Bureaus and Offices (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024 Bureaus and Offices Estimates to 1 Actuals 1 Enacted 1 FTEs FTEs FTEs Congress Chairwoman and Commissioners 23 $4,885 25 $6,692 25 $6,987 Consumer & Government Affairs Bureau 107 $22,009 119 $25,429 119 $26,589 Enforcement Bureau 180 $39,452 212 $47,385 212 $49,569 International Bureau 82 $17,112 88 $18,846 88 $19,751 Media Bureau 125 $24,417 133 $25,723 133 $26,959 Public Safety & Homeland Security Bureau 93 $20,286 104 $24,523 104 $25,682 Wireless Telecommunications Bureau 149 $13,038 158 $16,007 158 $16,772 Wireline Competition Bureau 149 $31,998 172 $35,762 172 $37,481 Office of Administrative Law Judges 4 $699 4 $762 4 $798 Office of Communications Business Opportunities 9 $2,022 13 $2,175 13 $2,279 Office of Economics and Analytics 109 $16,201 134 $18,311 134 $19,130 Office of Engineering & Technology 73 $13,847 79 $15,496 79 $16,219 Office of General Counsel 65 $16,364 79 $20,210 79 $21,120 Office of Legislative Affairs 8 $1,693 8 $1,797 8 $1,883 Office of Managing Director 181 $114,370 192 $114,891 192 $122,602 Office of Media Relations 12 $2,478 12 $2,593 12 $2,710 Office of Workplace Diversity 6 $1,019 8 $1,459 8 $1,526 Subtotal 1,375 $341,890 1,540 $378,061 1,540 $398,057 Office of Inspector General 46 $9,646 60 $12,131 60 $12,686 Total - Salaries & Expenses 2 1,421 $351,536 1,600 $390,192 1,600 $410,743 1The FTE numbers include the spectrum auctions program FTEs. 2The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. The Commission is responsible for the overall management, oversight, and administration of the Universal Service Fund (USF), including all USF policy decisions. All USF related activities are currently funded by regulatory fees. The Universal Service Fund Activities and Costs section on pages 21 through 23 provides more details related to the Commission’s USF activities and related costs. 14 FTEs by Resource Category Fiscal Years 2022 - 2024 1,600 1,600 1,600 1,500 203 203 1,421 1,400 60 60 177 1,300 46 1,337 1,337 1,200 1,198 1,100 FY 2022 (Actuals) FY 2023 (Estimate) FY 2024 (Estimate) Regulatory Fee FTEs OIG FTEs Auctions FTEs Number of Contractors 1,100 1,000 959 900 813 800 18 700 641 576 599 551 551 50 600 501 534 535 527 15 15 15 465 469 470 50 500 29 432 443 35 32 959 37 35 40 34 400 795 36 50 300 561 536 536 549 591 464 505 500 495 200 430 429 436 396 393 100 0 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Fiscal Years Non-OIG OIG Amounts for FYs 2023 through 2024 are estimates. The OIG number for FY 2009 was not separable. 15 FTEs - Historical and Estimated Fiscal Years 1990 – 2024 16 Summary of Changes - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 TOTAL NET CHANGE FY 2023 Estimates to Regulatory Fees - Offsetting Collections: Enacted Congress Amount Percent Commission $378,061 $398,057 $19,996 Office of Inspector General $12,131 $12,686 $555 Total Spending Authority - Offsetting Collections $390,192 $410,743 $20,551 5.3% Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) - Commission1 1,540 1,540 0 FTEs - Office of Inspector General 60 60 0 Total Full-Time Equivalents 1,600 1,600 0 Explanation of Changes - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) FY 2023 Appropriated & Enacted- Regulatory Fees $390,192 FY 2023 Base Reductions: FY 2023 One-Time Investment Request IT- Critical Infrastructure Upgrade -$1,080 Total - FY 2023 Base Reductions -$1,080 FY 2024 Base Before Increases, Adjustments & One-Time Investments $389,112 FY 2024 Base Increases: Enterprise and Fraud Risk Management and Internal Control Support $1,000 Enterprise Data Platform $500 Data Collection System for Bureaus and Offices $500 Multi-Factor Authentication of Public Facing System $450 Subtotal - FY 2024 Base Increases $2,450 FY 2024 Base Adjustments: Compensation & Benefits $14,220 Non-Salary Inflationary Increase $1,961 Subtotal - FY 2024 Base Adjustments $16,181 FY 2024 Adjusted Base Before One-Time Investment Requests $407,743 FY 2024 - One-Time Investment Requests: Enterprise Data Platform $2,000 Data Collection System for Bureaus and Offices $1,000 Subtotal - FY 2024 One-Time Investment Requests $3,000 FY 2024 Total Request $410,743 TOTAL NET CHANGE $20,551 5.3% 1Includes Spectrum Auctions Program FTEs. 17 Narrative Explanation of Changes - Salaries and Expenses - Regulatory Fees Personnel Compensation and Non-Salaries Inflationary Increase to Base: $16,181,000 A. Personnel Compensation ($14,220,000) – Pursuant to OMB guidance, the request includes a 5.2 percent increase for personnel compensation and benefits. This increase also includes related increases for the Office of Inspector General (OIG), which total $528,686. B. Non-Salary Inflationary Increase ($1,961,000) – This request provides expected inflationary increases for phones, utilities, printing and reproduction services, contractual services, supplies, travel, training, and other expenses. The total non-salary increase also includes related increases for the OIG, which total $26,314. This increase is developed using an estimated total inflationary rate of approximately two (2) percent. FY 2024 Base Increases ($2,450,000) and One-Time Requests ($3,000,000) for New Investments: $5,450,000 1. Enterprise and Fraud Risk Management and Internal Control Support ($1,000,000) In managing FCC programs such as the Universal Service Fund (USF), Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) Fund, Spectrum Auctions Program, Affordable Connectivity Program, Emergency Connectivity Fund, and others, management is responsible for and required to comply with various General Accountability Office (GAO) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance such as OMB A-123, Management’s Responsibility for Enterprise Risk Management and Internal Control; GAO’s A Framework for Managing Fraud Risks in Federal Programs; and OMB M-21-19, Requirements for Payment Integrity Improvement. With an ever-growing risk environment, OMB and GAO have implemented many best practices to help agencies manage, access, monitor and respond to fraud, waste and abuse. The Commission is requesting base funding to hire experts and independent contract support to help manage this emerging growth area within Commission programs. The Commission is seeking experts and independent contract support to: (1) Perform Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) risk assessments, (2) Perform fraud risk assessments, (3) Support ERM and Fraud Risk Management efforts, (4) Identify inherent risks and fraud risks affecting Commission programs, (5) Assess the likelihood and impact of inherent risks and fraud risks, (6) Determine, update, and monitor Commission’s risk appetite and risk tolerance, (7) Examine the suitability of existing controls, fraud controls and prioritize residual risks, (8) Document the programs’ risk profile and fraud risk profile, (9) Perform improper payments risk assessments, (10) Improper payment reporting to OMB, (11) Perform payment recapture audits, and (12) Assist with Single Audit Act reviews and compliance requirements. 2. Enterprise Data Platform ($2,500,000) The FCC plans to expand and enhance an Enterprise Data Platform to address in part statutory and OMB requirements for federal government agencies. This includes a one- time request for $2,000,000, and an ongoing base increase of $500,000 for: (1) addressing the Open, Public, Electronic and Necessary Government Data Act (OPEN Data Act), part 18 of the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act (Evidence Act), that requires agencies to publish public government data assets in a machine readable format and to develop and maintain a comprehensive data inventory, and (2) supporting Executive Order (EO) 14028 on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity, which requires Federal Government organizations to take action to strengthen national cybersecurity specifically calling for federal agencies and their suppliers “to modernize [their] approach to cybersecurity” by accelerating the move to secure cloud services and implementing a Zero Trust architecture (EO Zero Trust Architecture). This funding will provide resources to incorporate additional datasets and expand the Platform’s capabilities including: the implementation of access controls, tied to the agency’s authentication/single-sign-on tool, to ensure compliance with Zero Trust requirements for commercial or sensitive data; and the creation of an enterprise data catalog, capturing essential information for IT management, Zero-Trust data classification and for the public data inventory required by the Evidence Act. The funding will also support the expansion of the analytic toolset available to users on the Platform, providing a means for data discovery as well as access to various tools, software and scripting languages on the same cloud-based, scalable infrastructure that houses the data. The platform will also support Application Programming Interface (API) for data transfer among systems within the agency and for publication of data, as required by the Evidence Act. Furthermore, over the long run, a modernized consolidated data platform will allow for more efficient IT delivery, reduce tax payers’ cost, increase the Agency’s ability to implement better data governance, and provide improved data quality and analytics. 3. Data Collection System for Bureaus and Offices ($1,500,000) This request includes a one-time increase of $1,000,000, and an ongoing base increase of $500,000. The Commission and policy Bureaus regularly adopt rules to institute new or updated data collections to provide the necessary data to for fact-based policy making and implementation of existing programs. In addition, existing data collections often need updates or modernization, including due to security issues like the Log4j vulnerability. The volume of data collections can outstrip the IT resources we have available to implement them. Access to a secure low-code/no-code platform will allow the Agency to develop and design online data collection forms and interfaces to support Bureaus and Offices that are required by the Commission to conduct and implement data collections. Such a system will support compliance with the EO Zero Trust requirements; provide a secure, central location for data collected by the agency; and allow us to implement data-quality requirements on collections. 4. Multi-Factor Authentication of Public Facing System ($450,000) Per National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP), all public facing websites/systems require the use of a Multi-Factor Authenticator. An authentication system that requires more than one distinct authentication factor for successful authentication. FCC will leverage LOGIN.GOV to comply with NIST SP requirements for all public facing website/systems. 19 Office of Inspector General Narrative The Office of the Inspector General’s (OIG or the Office) workload continues to increase in all mission-critical areas. The Office continues to focus on increasing mission responsibilities and ensuring appropriate staff levels to keep pace with the workload. OIG has focused on hiring full- time equivalent staff over the past few budget years and this recruitment effort has permitted the Office to engage in a greater number of, and more complex, audits and investigations. We anticipate further growth in 2024. As a result, we plan to hire criminal investigators and general investigators in FY 2024 to support an expanded program of proactive investigations into E-rate and Lifeline providers and recipients and to provide additional law-enforcement capabilities we currently lack. We also plan to fill vacant staff level auditor and investigative attorney positions. We continually gauge the relative merits of any audit and investigation prior to expending valuable resources. The OIG FY 2024 budget request of $12,686,000 reflects a $555,000 increase over the FY 2023 enacted level of $12,131,000. The increase is attributable to a $528,686 increase in salary and benefits and $26,314 in non-salary. OIG Office of Audits (OA) conducts and contracts for the performance of independent and objective audits, inspections, evaluations, and related projects, designed to promote economy, effectiveness and efficiency in FCC programs and operations, and to prevent and detect fraud waste and abuse. As of September 30, 2022, OA had completed five projects and an additional six are currently in process. OA plans to complete more than 40 audits, inspections, and evaluations over the next five years, not including, any unforeseen special projects and Congressional requests. OIG Office of Investigations (OI) matters cover a wide range of topics touching on myriad aspects of the FCC’s mission and programs. Most significantly, our investigations often address allegations of criminal misconduct or civil fraud in the Commission’s Universal Service programs. We deal with complex investigations, large criminal conspiracies, and matters involving complex financial transactions throughout the United States and its territories. As of September 30, 2022, OI had 48 open cases. Working with the Department of Justice, in recent years, OI has recovered tens of millions of dollars of government funds and saved the government hundreds of millions of additional dollars, resulting from criminal and civil fraud cases that have been successfully prosecuted or settled. In the upcoming year, in addition to our ongoing activities, we also expect to conduct investigations to fulfill our mandate to deter and detect fraud, waste and abuse in the COVID-19 Telehealth program, the Affordable Connectivity Program and the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program and other matters that are a direct result of changes to the FCC’s subsidy programs in response to the coronavirus pandemic. In compliance with the IG Reform Act of 2008, this FCC OIG FY 2024 budget request includes: ▪ A fair share ratio in the amount of $33,961 for contribution to the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, ▪ Funds to support IGNet Management Services, and ▪ Training funds in the amount of $92,451. 20 Universal Service Fund Activities and Costs The Commission is responsible for the overall management, oversight, and administration of the Universal Service Fund (USF). The Commission develops policies for the USF, and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) collects and delivers funding through four programs – Schools and Libraries (E-Rate), Rural Health Care, Lifeline, and High Cost – focused on places where broadband and connectivity needs are critical. These programs serve people in rural, underserved, and difficult-to-reach areas. The Commission works with USAC, as administrator of the USF, to review USAC’s administrative expenses and also to oversee the effectiveness of USAC’s internal controls around USAC’s program management, procurements, information technology projects, and personnel processes. The descriptions below provide additional information about how the Commission’s various Bureaus and Offices work together as the agency carries out its USF management and oversight responsibilities. Office of Managing Director. The Office of Managing Director (OMD) is responsible for all USF management and administrative activities, including finance, accounting, procurement, information technology, and audits of beneficiaries and contributors. OMD provides instruction and oversight to USAC on these issues. Wireline Competition Bureau. The Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB) oversees USF policy and provides guidance on the applicability and interpretation of the Commission’s USF rules, orders, and directives to USAC and to stakeholders. WCB also is primarily responsible for USF rulemaking proceedings, appeals of USAC decisions, requests for waivers of the Commission’s USF rules, petitions for USF declaratory rulings, interactions with the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, and preparation and publication of USF information in the Universal Service Monitoring Report. Wireless Telecommunications Bureau. The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB), in coordination with WCB, developed policy and procedures concerning the Mobility Fund and the Alaska Plan for mobile, which represent universal service support mechanisms dedicated exclusively to mobile wireless services. Office of Economics and Analytics. The Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA), in coordination with WCB, oversees reverse auctions policy and implementation for distributing high-cost universal service support. and in coordination with WTB and WCB developed the proposal for the 5G Fund for Rural America. Office of General Counsel. The Office of General Counsel (OGC) oversees issues relating to litigation and settlements and serves as the Commission’s chief legal advisor, including on issues pertaining to USF matters. Enforcement Bureau. If USAC or a Commission Bureau or Office identifies a possible violation of the Communications Act or a Commission rule, order, or directive, the matter is referred to the Enforcement Bureau (EB) for possible investigation and administrative enforcement action, including issuing forfeitures. EB pursues potential investigations of USF-related matters from other sources of information as well. In addition, EB is authorized to suspend and debar persons 21 from participating in the universal service mechanisms upon a criminal conviction of or civil judgment for fraud against a USF program. Office of Inspector General. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducts audits, evaluations, and inspections of USF programs and operations, as well as program service providers and beneficiaries designed to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse. These oversight activities and related initiatives help promote economy, effectiveness, and efficiency of the USF. USF Activities The Commission’s continued budgetary and programmatic focus for the universal service programs includes: (1) promoting policies to help bring affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband to 100 percent of the country, (2) eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse, and (3) promoting efficiency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility. With these priorities in mind, the Commission targets support to deliver, expand, and maintain voice and broadband service to high cost and rural areas, low-income consumers, and schools and libraries. Under the Connect America Fund, as of November 2022, the Commission has authorized $1.483 billion in support over 10 years to 193 winning bidders of reverse auctions to provide fixed broadband and voice services to over 708,494 locations in 45 states. As part of its Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, the Commission used a reverse auction mechanism to distribute support for the provision of fixed broadband and voice services. As of November 10, 2022, over $5.7 billion in support has been Authorized to deploy voice and broadband service to over 3.27 million model locations. In October 2020, the Commission adopted the 5G Fund for Rural America to replace Mobility Fund Phase II. The 5G Fund Phase I auction will award up to $8 billion over 10 years to deploy 5G service in areas otherwise unlikely to receive timely 5G deployment. The 5G Fund Phase II auction budget is presently set at $1 billion plus the remainder of the Phase I budget. In the Lifeline program, the Commission’s primary goals are to: (1) continue implementation of the modernization of the Lifeline program to support affordable, high-speed internet access for our nation’s poorest families; and (2) ensure fiscal responsibility and combat waste, fraud, and abuse so Lifeline USF dollars spent reach the consumers Lifeline was created to help. Actions to accomplish these goals include using a unified interface to independently process eligibility verification and recertification of Lifeline subscribers, as well as interconnected verification with other agency and state eligibility databases to improve program controls. The Commission also anticipates working towards the implementation of the Safe Connections Act, which may impact the Lifeline program. In the E-Rate program, the Commission is committed to ensuring eligible schools and libraries can obtain affordable, high-speed broadband services and internal connections that are necessary to connect today’s students and library patrons with next-generation learning opportunities and services. The E-Rate program has a cap of $4.46 billion for the current funding year, adjusted annually for inflation. 22 Finally, in the Rural Healthcare program, the Commission remains committed to promoting telehealth by providing financial support to eligible health care providers for broadband and telecommunications services. The Rural Healthcare program has a cap of $637.7 million for the current funding year, adjusted annually for inflation. The chart below shows the estimated costs that the Commission will incur in overseeing USF activities, which includes costs incurred by the OIG. (Dollars in Thousands) Fiscal Years FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024 FCC's USF Activities Cost1 $19,102 $19,484 $19,874 Full-Time Equivalent (FTEs) 80 80 80 1 Amount shown are projections based on actual cost. The chart below shows the total number of Commission FTEs working on USF activities by bureau and office for FY 2022 based on extrapolated data. Number of FCC FTEs Working On USF Activities By Bureau and Office FTEs Wireline Competition Bureau 41 Office of Economics & Analytics 19 Office of Inspector General 1 Enforcement Bureau 8 Wireless Telecommunications Bureau 4 Office of General Counsel 4 Office of the Managing Director 2 Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau 1 Total FTEs 80 Crosswalk of USF Outlays to FCC Strategic Goals In FY 2022, USF made outlays totaling $7.854 billion. These outlays were allocated to the following FY 2022 strategic goal: (Dollars in Millions) Applicable FY 2022 Strategic Goals Outlay Amount Percent Pursue a "100 Percent" Broadband Policy $7,854 100.0% Total $7,854 100.0% As of September 30, 2022 23 Overall Status of Audit Recommendations The chart below shows the number of audit recommendations outstanding from various audits conducted by FCC’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) at the end of each fiscal year. The numbers shown below exclude those recommendations for which the Commission has already submitted information to GAO and OIG requesting closure of the recommendation. The count also excludes those recommendations that the Commission has determined to close as not implemented. Outstanding Audit Recommendations 300 255 250 50 200 189 150 100 103 90 159 100 205 81 75 70 47 32 57 62 39 48 50 40 44 53 58 42 30 46 27 30 0 18 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 OIG GAO FY 2023 as of December 31, 2022. 24 Crosswalk - Summary of Changes for Regulatory Fees (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2023 FY 2024 FY 2024 FY 2024 FY 2024 FY 2024 FY 2023 Reversal of FY 2024 Non-Salary Base Salary One-Time Estimates to Enacted One-Time Base Inflationary Increases Increase Requests Congress Requests Increase Chairwoman and $6,692 $0 $6,692 $0 $273 $22 $0 $6,987 Commissioners Consumer & Governmental $25,429 $0 $25,429 $0 $1,100 $60 $0 $26,589 Affairs Bureau Enforcement Bureau $47,385 $0 $47,385 $0 $2,089 $95 $0 $49,569 International Bureau $18,846 $0 $18,846 $0 $892 $13 $0 $19,751 Media Bureau $25,723 $0 $25,723 $0 $1,218 $17 $0 $26,959 Public Safety & Homeland $24,523 $0 $24,523 $0 $1,129 $30 $0 $25,682 Security Bureau Wireless Telecommunications $16,007 $0 $16,007 $0 $752 $13 $0 $16,772 Bureau Wireline Competition Bureau $35,762 $0 $35,762 $0 $1,697 $22 $0 $37,481 Office of Administrative Law $762 $0 $762 $0 $35 $1 $0 $798 Judges Office of Communications $2,175 $0 $2,175 $0 $102 $2 $0 $2,279 Business Opportunities Office of Economics and $18,311 $0 $18,311 $0 $765 $54 $0 $19,130 Analytics Office of Engineering and $15,496 $0 $15,496 $0 $698 $25 $0 $16,219 Technology Office of General Counsel $20,210 $0 $20,210 $0 $855 $55 $0 $21,120 Office of Legislative Affairs $1,797 $0 $1,797 $0 $84 $2 $0 $1,883 Office of Managing Director $114,891 -$1,080 $113,811 $2,450 $1,827 $1,514 $3,000 $122,602 Office of Media Relations $2,593 $0 $2,593 $0 $110 $7 $0 $2,710 Office of Workplace Diversity $1,459 $0 $1,458 $0 $65 $3 $0 $1,526 Subtotal $378,061 -$1,080 $376,981 $2,450 $13,691 $1,935 $3,000 $398,057 Office of Inspector General $12,131 $0 $12,131 $0 $529 $26 $0 $12,686 TOTAL $390,192 -$1,080 $389,112 $2,450 $14,220 $1,961 $3,000 $410,743 The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 25 This page is intentionally left blank 26 SPECTRUM AUCTIONS 27 This page is intentionally left blank 28 Spectrum Auctions Program - Explanation of Requested Change The Federal Communications Commission requests $136,167,000 for the Spectrum Auctions Program for FY 2024, which is an increase of $3,936,000 from FY 2023 appropriated amount of $132,231,000, as detailed below. Funding at this level will enable the Commission to continue its efforts to make more spectrum available for 5G, to continue the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015 and certain provisions of the RAY BAUM’S Act, including the MOBILE NOW Act, as well as the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021; to continue the close-out of post-broadcast incentive auction (BIA) work related to displacement, repacking, and reimbursing from the TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund to broadcasters (TVBRF), multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs), Low Power TV (LPTV), TV translator stations, and FM broadcast stations for reasonable relocation costs incurred because of the Commission’s broadcast incentive auction, and to upgrade and improve Commission’s auction infrastructure in preparation for future auctions. (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 TOTAL NET CHANGE FY 2023 Estimates to Enacted Amount Percent Congress Spectrum Auctions Program Cost Recovery $132,231 $136,167 $3,936 3.0% Explanation of Changes FY 2023 Appropriated & Enacted $132,231 FY 2024 Base Before Adjustments $132,231 FY 2024 Base Adjustments: Compensation & Benefits $2,156 Non-Salary Inflationary Increase $1,780 Subtotal - FY 2024 Base Adjustments $3,936 FY 2024 Total Request $136,167 TOTAL NET CHANGE $3,936 3.0% 29 Spectrum Auctions Program The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, P.L. 103-66 (Act), required the Commission to auction licenses for portions of the electromagnetic spectrum used for certain services, replacing the former lottery process. The Act further requires the Commission to ensure that small businesses, women, minorities, and rural telephone companies have an opportunity to participate in the competitive bidding process. The Commission initiated regulations implementing the spectrum auction authority granted by the legislation and conducted its first round of auctions in July 1994. As of January 2023, the total amount generated for broader government use and deficit reduction since 1994 exceeds $233.5 billion. The original spectrum auction authority was scheduled to expire in FY 1998; however, it was extended through FY 2007 in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, P.L. 105-33; extended through FY 2011 by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, P.L. 109-171; extended through FY 2012 by the DTV Delay Act (2012), P.L. 111-4; extended through FY 2022 by the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012, P.L. 112-96; extended through December 16, 2022 by the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Acct, 2023, P.L. 117-180; extended through December 23, 2022 by the Further Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023, P.L. 117-229; extended through December 30, 2022 by the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023, P.L 117-264; and extended through March 9, 2023 by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, P.L. 117-328. The Commission’s authority to conduct new auctions and grant a license or permit under section 309(j) of the Communications Act expires March 9, 2023, except that, with respect to the electromagnetic spectrum identified under section 1004(a) of the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015, such authority shall expire on September 30, 2025, and with respect to the electromagnetic spectrum identified under section 90008(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117- 58), such authority shall expire on November 15, 2028, seven (7) years after the date of enactment of that Act. The Commission is authorized to retain funds from auction revenues to develop, implement, and maintain the auctions program. These funds cover the personnel and administrative costs required to plan and execute spectrum auctions; operational costs to manage payments and collections activities; development, implementation, and maintenance of all information technology systems necessary for auctions operations, including development of a combinatorial bidding system; and a proportional share of the general administrative costs of the Commission. This budget submission assumes that the auctions program will continue to recover the costs of conducting auction activities from spectrum license auction receipts as the Commission continues to use auctions as a licensing mechanism for spectrum-based communications services. The Commission’s FY 2023 Appropriations language capped the auctions program obligations at $132,231,000. The Commission’s request of $136,167,000 for FY 2024 is an increase of $3,936,000 or 3 percent. This is due to an inflationary increase in salary costs and non-salary costs. Funding at Requirement C level will enable the Commission to: • implement the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Infrastructure Act) by taking steps toward the potential auction of licenses in the 3.1-3.45 GHz band; 30 • implement the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015 by, for example, taking steps to auction 30 megahertz identified pursuant to the Act and continuing the steps necessary to promote use of the 3.5 GHz band; • implement the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 for 5G Act of 2020 by supporting the transition of the 3.45 GHz band and the relocation of secondary radiolocation users; • continue ongoing activities and taking other steps necessary to implement the RAY BAUM’S Act, including the Making Opportunities for Broadband Investment and Limiting Excessive and Needless Obstacles to Wireless Act (MOBILE NOW Act) provisions regarding identifying, making licenses available through auction, and transitioning spectrum for mobile and fixed wireless broadband use in, among other bands, the 3.7 GHz- 4.2 GHz range; • continue the close-out process for the post-BIA work related to displacement, repacking, and reimbursing from the TVBRF to broadcasters and MVPDs for their costs to implement the results of the BIA; and • upgrade and improve its auctions program infrastructure and security posture in preparation for future auctions authorized by the Infrastructure Act and the Spectrum Pipeline Act. In addition, as the demand for spectrum for new technologies extends to spectrum bands previously assigned for legacy applications, creative approaches must be found to accommodate existing licensees and operations while expanding opportunities for access by new users. Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015, RAY BAUM’S Act, and Other Auction Program Improvements The Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015 (Pipeline Act) requires the Commission to auction 30 megahertz of spectrum identified by the Secretary of Commerce for reallocation from Federal use to non- Federal use, shared use, or a combination thereof. The Pipeline Act also appropriates funds from the Spectrum Relocation Fund to support activities by Federal entities to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Federal use of spectrum in order to make Federal spectrum available for non- Federal use, shared use, or a combination thereof. The Pipeline Act requires the FCC, as part of its role on the interagency Technical Panel established within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), to review Federal entities’ proposals for funds for these purposes. Additionally, the Pipeline Act requires the Commission to submit four reports to Congress. In November 2018, the Commission submitted a first report with an analysis of its new rules for the innovative Citizens Broadband Radio Service in the 3550-3700 MHz band. That same month, the Commission submitted a second report analyzing proposals to promote and identify additional bands that can be shared under such rules and identifying at least 1 gigahertz of spectrum between 6 GHz and 57 GHz for such use. By January 1, 2024, in coordination with the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, the Commission must submit a third report that identifies at least an additional 50 megahertz of spectrum below 6 GHz for potential auction. Also, a fourth report which identifies at least another additional 50 megahertz of additional spectrum below 6 gigahertz for potential auction must be submitted by January 1, 2024. The latter two reports must contain an assessment of the Federal operations in such spectrum, an estimated timeline for the competitive bidding process, and a proposed plan for balance between unlicensed and licensed use. 31 The RAY BAUM’S Act amended the Pipeline Act to require notice and comment for certain Pipeline Act reports and to direct the Commission to undertake numerous rulemakings and initiatives related to potential repurposing, reallocation, sharing, or auction of spectrum bands. The latter directive included a requirement that the Commission work with NTIA to identify an additional 255 megahertz of spectrum for mobile and fixed wireless use by December 31, 2022. To fulfill these statutory requirements and enhance the Commission’s ability to execute upcoming auctions, auctions funding will also be used for the following that entail extensive work to be performed during FY 2024: • 3.1-3.45 GHz Band – The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (P.L. 117-58), among other things, requires the Commission, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, to begin a system of competitive bidding for frequencies within 3.1-3.45 GHz band identified for shared use by federal and non-federal users by the Departments of Commerce and Defense no sooner than November 30, 2024. The development of the auction and related work will require Commission staff resources in FY 2024. • 3.5 GHz Auction and Post-Auction Implementation – In 2018, the Commission updated its service rules for licenses in the 3550-3650 MHz portion of the 3.5 GHz band, which were awarded through an auction. Bidding in Auction 105 began on July 23, 2020 and concluded on August 25, 2020. On September 2, 2020, the Commission announced that 228 bidders won a total of 20,625 licenses, for $4.5 billion in net bids. Due to the characteristics of and use cases for licenses in this band, bidding in this auction had a novel set of requirements that required the Commission to develop new auction procedures and software. In addition, the nature of the licenses required significant software changes. Long-form license applications were filed just before the end of 2020. Since then, Commission staff have undertaken the statutorily required process to evaluate and grant such applications, where warranted. In addition, the Commission will have an ongoing need to interface with the Spectrum Access System Administrators (SASs), which manage the dynamic spectrum sharing environment in the 3.5 GHz band, as well as the Environmental Sensing Capability (ESC) operators, which facilitate federal incumbent protection in the band. The Commission also will have an ongoing need to test and verify the operational capabilities of current and future SASs and ESCs, as discussed below. Successful implementation of the unique sharing model adopted in the band will provide the American consumer with access to additional spectrum resources. • 3.7-4.2 GHz Auction and Post-Auction Implementation – Bidding in Auction 107, an auction of flexible-use licenses for 280 megahertz of spectrum in this band, began on December 8, 2020 and concluded on February 17, 2021. On February 24, 2021, the Commission announced that the auction raised a total of $81.1 billion in net bids and $81.2 billion in gross bids, with 21 bidders winning all 5,684 licenses offered in the auction. Winning bidders were required to file post-auction long-form applications by March 10, 2021. Since then, Commission staff have completed the statutorily required process to evaluate and grant such applications, where warranted. The Commission is overseeing and will continue to oversee the process of transitioning incumbent Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) out of the 280 megahertz that has been auctioned in order to enable new flexible-use licensees to deploy. Under the transition process adopted by the Commission, overseeing this process will involve Commission staff resources in FY 2024. 32 • 3.45-3.55 GHz Band – In a March 2021 Second Report and Order, the Commission reallocated the 3.45-3.55 GHz band to make 100 megahertz of spectrum available for flexible use and adopted a framework for the 3.45 GHz band that will enable robust commercial use by an array of service providers, while also ensuring that federal incumbents are still protected from harmful interference where and when they require continued access to the band. Pursuant to the requirements of the Commercial Spectrum Enhancement Act, the Commission commenced bidding in Auction 110—an auction of licenses in the 3.45 GHz band—on October 5, 2021. The Commission announced the conclusion of the auction and winning bidders on January 14, 2022. Since then, Commission staff have completed the statutorily required process to evaluate and grant such applications, where warranted. Performing post-auction activities, including transitioning incumbent secondary users, will potentially require Commission staff resources in FY 2024. • 2.5 GHz Band (2496-2690 MHz) – On July 10, 2019, the Commission released a Report and Order modernizing the 2.5 GHz band and making additional spectrum available for 5G and other advanced wireless services. To this end, the Commission eliminated the legacy Educational Broadband Service (EBS) eligibility requirements, educational use requirements, and leasing restrictions in the band. The Commission also established a priority filing window providing Tribal Nations with a one-time licensing opportunity for unassigned 2.5 GHz spectrum over their rural Tribal lands. The Commission has so far issued 336 licenses to eligible Tribal entities enabling them to address the communications needs of their communities. Finally, the Commission decided that any unassigned spectrum remaining post-window would be made available via competitive bidding in a future auction. The Commission commenced bidding in Auction 108 for overlay licenses in the 2.5 GHz band on July 29, 2022. On September 1, 2022, the Commission announced that the auction raised over $419 million in net winning bids with 63 bidders winning a total of 7,872 licenses. Winning bidders were required to file post-auction long-form applications by September 16, 2022. The Commission announced the grant of 650 licenses on December 1, 2022 and additional licenses were granted on January 5 and March 1, 2023. Certain post-auction activities requiring Commission staff resources, including those related to the Rural Tribal Priority Window, may continue into FY 2024. • FM broadcast service construction permits – Pending the further development of the Commission’s upcoming auction schedule, the Commission is considering an auction of FM broadcast service construction permits in FY 2023 or FY 2024. The initial public notice announcing this FM auction would list the specific vacant FM allotments for which the Commission would offer construction permits in the auction. Conducting the auction and performing pre-auction and post-auction activities will require Commission staff resources in FY 2024. • Other Auction Development and Implementation – The Commission needs to make additional changes to the auction bidding and licensing systems to prepare for auctions of spectrum bands that may become available for licensing based on spectrum planning currently underway, including other bands identified by the Mobile Now Act, the 30 megahertz required by the Pipeline Act, and bands identified by the Infrastructure Act. The Commission and its federal partners, including NTIA and the Department of Defense, are currently collaborating to explore additional mid-band 5G opportunities, including ongoing work streams in NTIA’s Policy and 33 Plans Steering Group (PPSG). The PPSG provides a forum for the Commission and its federal partners to address spectrum policy issues that affect the use of spectrum by non-federal and federal users. The PPSG is exploring other bands that could potentially be made available for commercial 5G use, including on a shared basis, consistent with statutory directives. The Commission expects these activities will extend into FY 2024. • SAS/ESC Testing for 3.5 GHz – The Spectrum Access System (SAS)/Environmental Sensing Capability (ESC) are necessary components to facilitate additional non-federal access to spectrum in the 3.5 GHz band and are necessary to protect incumbent Federal operations. Six SASs have been authorized for full commercial use in the 3.5 GHz band for five-year terms, and sensor deployment and four ESC operators have been approved for commercial operation. In FY 2022, the Commission enabled Priority Access Licensees to enter into light-touch leases and spectrum manager leases with notification to a SAS administrator. The Commission will continue to monitor and analyze the operations of approved SASs and ESCs to ensure compliance with the rules. Other entities have applied to be SAS administrators and ESC operators. The Commission will need to test and evaluate these new SASs and ESCs prior to approving them for use in the 3.5 GHz band. The Commission may also need to perform additional testing on existing SASs and ESCs to ensure that any future system upgrades or modifications comply with the rules. This work will continue into FY 2024. • Optimization for New Spectrum Opportunities – The optimization team will help the Commission analyze and study options for using complex mathematical optimization techniques for making new spectrum licenses available through new auction formats including overlay licenses, transitioning incumbents out of repurposed spectrum bands while assuring continued service to their customers, and other ways to implement spectrum sharing scenarios, to ensure we are maximizing the amount of useful commercial spectrum. They will develop optimal band plans accommodating incumbent uses and demonstrate the value of additional clearing or sharing as necessary. This research will also provide statistical and technical computation, analysis, simulation, and modeling, including geographic data and mapping, related to auctions. • Spectrum Visualization Tools – Public Facing and Internal – The Commission continues to develop spectrum visualization tools to provide the public and government agencies with insights into how spectrum utilization could be modified to meet growing demand for wireless broadband services, including through licenses assigned by auction. These tools will help satisfy the public’s significant interest in understanding who has licensed rights to different spectrum bands at different locations and provide the ability to manipulate and analyze this data. Federal agencies also would benefit from this information as they consider sharing/relocation options. Additionally, it is critical for internal Commission teams to have robust data, including mapping, to understand coverage and operations across the country. For example, in anticipation of the auction of overlay licenses in the 2.5 GHz band (Auction 108), on March 21, 2022, the Commission announced the launch of a mapping tool for use by potential bidders to help assess whether and to what extent there is unassigned 2.5 GHz spectrum available in any U.S. county. This work will continue in FY 2024. • Auction Application System (formerly known as Integrated Spectrum Auctions System (ISAS)) Enhancement/Modernization – The Commission must modify the application forms for participation in each auction in response to the auction’s unique requirements. Work to 34 modernize the auction application system will provide the foundation for new implementations of the primary auctions application software, including providing the ability to customize the form to support future auctions based on novel license eligibility requirements and auction formats, while improving security. This work, including updates to implement new spectrum and auction policies will continue through FY 2024. Universal Licensing System Modernization – The Commission must modernize its licensing database and infrastructure to implement complex new service rules, as well as replace outdated technology to improve reliability, security, and access to data. The modernized system would enable the FCC to better support new auctions, inventory existing auction licenses, and re-auction spectrum. Development to date has focused on Short Term Authorizations for market-based licenses while requirements definition has concentrated on regular, auction market-based licenses, site-based licenses, and personal radio services. In FY 2024, the work will focus on the system’s supporting infrastructure, and preparation for incremental system releases. Continued Close-Out of Post-Broadcast Incentive Auction Transition Work The Incentive Auction Closing and Channel Reassignment Public Notice, released on April 13, 2017, announced the completion of the first-ever spectrum incentive auction. The BIA made available 84 megahertz of low-band spectrum for commercial and unlicensed wireless use by repurposing a portion of the broadcast TV band. The total net winning bids of the auction were $19.3 billion. Pursuant to the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012, the auction proceeds, among other things, were directed to fund $1.75 billion, and the Reimbursement Expansion Act of 2018 (REA) funded the remainder, of a $2.7 billion TVBRF. The TVBRF reimburses entities for their reasonable expenses incurred as a result of stations being involuntarily relocated to new channels. Specifically, 957 repacked full power and Class A stations, 90 FM stations, 881 low power and translator TV stations (LPTV/translator stations), 181 MVPDs participate in the TVBRF. All of the repacked broadcast TV stations transitioned off of their pre- auction channels as of September 2020, though not all had completed construction of their permanent facilities. As of March, 7 2023, 7, full power stations had not completed construction of final facilities and therefore remained on interim facilities. In addition, some repacked stations, who have already vacated their pre-auction channel, have ongoing construction to remove old antennas and equipment and take other follow-up efforts, the reasonable costs of which are also reimbursable from the TVBRF. Certain LPTV/translator stations are still constructing displacement facilities. The following are a list of highlights from the activities that will continue to take place in FY 2024. • Licensing for Broadcasters Being Relocated – The Commission will continue to process applications and licenses to cover, as well as possible technical modifications determined to be necessary once the stations transition and test their new facilities. The process will require Commission staff to continue to monitor broadcaster progress, identify and resolve transition- related problems and challenges, process applications, and review and verify information in FY 2024. Concluding the post-auction transition will also continue to require software, cloud computing resources, and assistance from skilled computer scientists, software engineers, and technology experts. 35 • Displaced LPTV and TV Translator Station Licensing – A Special Displacement Window closed on June 15, 2018, for operating LPTV/translator stations displaced due to the new 600 MHz wireless band and the post-auction repacking process for full power and Class A stations. More than 2,000 applications were granted. Broadcast licensing for LPTV/translator stations is performed in two steps: (1) application review and grant of a CP and (2) application review and grant of a license to cover. LPTV/translator stations on channels 39-43 and 47-51 were allowed to continue operating until a wireless operator sent them 120-day notice that they were going to commence operations. Some displaced stations have not yet been required to transition. The Commission will continue to process such applications as they are filed. • FM Station Licensing – FM radio spectrum was not subject to the post-Incentive Auction repacking process. Some FM stations with antennas on or near a tower supporting a repacked TV antenna may be affected if, for example, the FM antenna must be moved, temporarily or permanently, to make it possible for the co-located TV station to complete its construction of facilities on the tower. In such situations some FM stations must apply for a construction permit or special temporary authority to operate on an interim basis during a construction project on the station’s tower. • Fund Administration and Reimbursement Process – The Commission has engaged a contractor (Fund Administrator) to assist in administering the TVBRF. The Fund Administrator has extensive experience in television broadcast engineering and federal funds management to review cost estimates. The Fund Administrator reviews the reimbursement estimates and invoices for expenses incurred, including the accompanying supporting documentation to validate that they reflect costs that may be reasonably incurred to relocate television service from a station’s original channel to its reassigned channel or, in the case of MVPDs, to continue to carry the broadcast signal of a reassigned broadcast station, or in the case of FM stations to reasonably minimize disruption of service during the repack. Requests for additional information are sent to entities where reasonableness cannot be determined, where necessary documentation appears to be missing, or where the requested reimbursement appears to be excessive. The Fund Administrator recommends approval or rejection of each estimate and invoice. The Commission reviews those recommendations and approves estimates and pays approved invoices. Allocations based on the amount of an entities’ verified estimates obligate funds in the TVBRF. Invoices are paid for approved incurred expenses as a portion of allocated amounts. The REA permits the Commission to obligate funds in the TVBRF until July 3, 2023 and the Commission may reimburse certain stations from obligated funds for a period of five years thereafter. Reimbursement payments will continue in FY 2024 as reimbursement-eligible entities continue to submit their invoices against previously obligated reimbursement funds. • Close Out Procedures for TV and FM Broadcasters and MVPDs –Close out procedures for stations that continue to work on construction projects for repacked or displacement facilities will be subject to close-out procedures after July 3, 2023, and during FY 2024. When an entity completes its construction project it will submit all remaining supporting documentation and requests for reimbursement to the Commission and inform the Commission that the submissions are complete. The entity will receive a financial reconciliation statement from the Fund Administrator that specifies verified, estimated amounts; allocated amounts; amounts requested for reimbursement; amounts disbursed by the Commission; and information outlining any additional amounts payable by the Commission to the entity or owed to the 36 Commission by the entity. If an overpayment is discovered, the entity will be required to return the excess amount to the Commission and detailed instructions for prompt submission of such overpayments will be provided to the entity by the Commission. Each station will review the financial reconciliation statement for accuracy and completeness and, upon concurrence, return an executed version of the financial reconciliation statement to the Fund Administrator. The Bureau will then provide the station with a close-out letter and issue any payments currently due, subject to the station’s available allocation. The close-out letter will serve as the official notice of account close-out, include a summary of any financial changes that occurred during the interim closing period, and remind entities of their ongoing document retention requirements. • Post-Implementation Site Visit Program. To prevent fraud, waste, and abuse, and thereby maximize the amount of money available for reimbursement post-implementation site visits validate the existence and operational status of post-transition equipment for which the entity received reimbursement, and ensure that such equipment is being used by the fund participant for its intended purpose. The Fund Administrator will visit a randomly selected, statistically valid sample of TVBRF participants and may select additional participants for site visits based on specific facts or circumstances. Site visits will continue in 2023. Based on the results of these site visits and the continuing reimbursement process, additional work may be required in FY 2024 and until all entities have completed close out procedures. • Audits, Data Validations, and Disbursement Validations – Audits, data validations, and site visits are essential tools in preventing waste, fraud, and abuse, and use of these measures will maximize the amount of money available for reimbursement. Throughout the reimbursement period, the Media Bureau together with the Fund Administrator performs disbursement validations in order to confirm that entities receiving reimbursement funding for third party services have in fact disbursed monies received from the Fund in a manner consistent with representations made to the Commission in the Reimbursement Form. Also, a third-party audit firm acting on behalf of the Commission may conduct audits of entities receiving disbursements from the Reimbursement Fund, and these audits may occur both during and following the Reimbursement Period. The Commission has determined that Commission staff and/or a third- party auditor will continue to validate expenses after the reimbursement period ends, consistent with the Commission’s obligation to recover improper payments, including after the close-out period. • Submission of Banking Information – The Commission requires all eligible entities who will receive TVBRF payments to provide detailed banking information that is both notarized on paper form and submitted in a secure electronic system. The Commission reviews this information prior to making any payments. Eligible entities may revise their banking information throughout the reimbursement period. FCC Obligations in Support of the Auctions Program Pursuant to 47 U.S.C. §309(a), the Commission must provide its authorizing and appropriations committees in Congress with a detailed report of the FCC’s obligations in support of the auctions program for each fiscal year of operation. The following table shows available auction cash for recent fiscal years. 37 Spectrum Auctions Activities Fiscal Years 2019 - 2023 Dollars in Thousands FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 20233 Beginning Cash Balance as of October 1 $3,508,741 $3,378,640 $7,731,130 $84,938,157 $3,098,809 Current Year Net Cash 2,598,061 6,845,791 77,926,671 (81,370,968) 326,172 Less: Deferred Revenue as of September 301 (2,725,948) (2,491,088) (113,267) (466,496) (353,997) Deposit Liability - Refunds as of September 302 (2,214) (2,213) (606,377) (1,884) 4,422 Available Cash as of September 30 $3,378,640 $7,731,130 $84,938,157 $3,098,809 $3,075,406 1Cash associated with licenses that have not been granted as of stated date. 2Upfront auction deposits not refunded as of stated date. 3The available cash balance is as of December 31, 2022 Summary of Distribution of Resources - Spectrum Auctions Program SPECTRUM AUCTIONS COST RECOVERY REIMBURSABLE AUTHORITY INCLUDING OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $26,966 $28,587 $30,192 Personnel benefits (12.0) 9,608 9,443 $9,995 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $36,574 $38,030 $40,187 Other Expenses: Benefits for former personnel (13.0) $9 $8 $9 Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $89 $387 395 Transportation of things (22.0) $5 $9 9 Rent payments to GSA (23.1) $4,598 $4,615 4,708 Communications, utilities, & misc. charges (23.3) $1,787 $2,194 2,238 Printing and reproduction (24.0) $185 $217 221 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $16,052 $35,241 35,836 Other goods & services from Federal sources (25.3) $1,309 $932 951 Operation & maintenance of equipment (25.7) $41,668 $49,930 50,933 Supplies and materials (26.0) $86 $119 121 Equipment (31.0) $3,768 $529 539 Insurance claims & interest (40.0) $7 $20 20 Subtotal - Other Expenses $69,563 $94,201 $95,980 Total - Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursable Authority $106,137 $132,231 $136,167 38 Spectrum Auctions Expenditures Report Section 309(j) of the Communications Act permits the Commission to use funds raised from auctions to fund its auctions program, including contracts for services and costs related to personnel performing work in support of Commission auctions authorized under that section. The FCC’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) and Office of Managing Director (OMD) provide direction to FCC employees attributing hours for this purpose. The House of Representatives and Senate Appropriations Committees review and set a yearly cap for the spectrum auctions program. The requested cap level for FY 2024 is $136,167,000 to fund the following activities: further the objective of making more spectrum available for commercial use; continue implementation of the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015 and certain provisions of the RAY BAUM’S Act, including the MOBILE NOW Act, as well as the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act; continue the close-out of post-BIA work to include the new additional requirements from the REA related to the TVBRF; and upgrade and improve auctions infrastructure in preparation for future actions. In addition, as the demand for spectrum for new technologies extends to spectrum bands previously assigned for legacy applications, creative approaches must be found to accommodate existing licensees and operations while expanding opportunities for access by new users. The Commission’s spectrum auctions program supports efficient licensing while also contributing significant funds to the U.S. Treasury for deficit reduction and providing direct support to other government programs. As of January 2023, the Commission had generated over $233.5 billion in auctions revenues since initiating the auctions program in 1994. During this period, auctions program expenses have been 1.1% of the Commission’s total auctions revenues. Spectrum auction planning, development, and implementation is performed agency-wide and is very information technology (IT) intensive, as reflected in our Auction Expenditure Justification Reports. For example, the Incentive Auction Task Force as well as the team that implemented the auction and facilitate the transition of 100 megahertz of spectrum in the 3.45-3.55 GHz band to flexible use subject to certain cooperative sharing requirements, draw upon the resources and expertise of staff from across the Commission, including the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, Media Bureau, International Bureau, Bureau of Consumer and Governmental Affairs, Office of Economics and Analytics, Office of Engineering and Technology, OMD, and OGC. Auctions funds also cover the program’s share of Commission operating expenses. The Commission uses these funds to enable successful auctions and expends them in a manner consistent with statutory requirements. Every auction is different and has specific requirements, which require careful attention to detail and planning. Since auction activities are performed agency-wide and are unique, allocating the appropriate amount of cost and overhead related to the auctions program is a challenge. In addition, the complexity of spectrum auctions has increased steadily as the Commission works through more difficult technical and policy issues related to the scarcity of vacant spectrum. Preparation for spectrum auctions generally requires sufficient time to design, develop, and implement secure, reliable, and effective auction application, bidding, and post-auction licensing systems. In the practice of cost accounting, costs are identified as one of the following: (1) direct cost, (2) indirect cost, or (3) generally allocated cost. The methodology for deriving the proportional share of generally allocated administrative costs to be charged to the auctions program is based on 39 the Commission’s time reporting system and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The allocation is based on the percentage of actual hours that employees worked to support the auction program plus the same proportional share of the employee’s indirect hours (leave hours). This full time equivalent (FTE) rate is applied to costs that benefit the Commission as a whole. The items that are allocated by the FTE rate include Commission-wide IT systems, guard service, administrative facility services, supplies, furniture, equipment, and human resources training activities. The FCC has maintained an average of 14 percent for this purpose, with minor deviations. The Commission continues to plan for future auctions, most notably reallocating and auctioning frequencies within 3.1-3.45 GHz band identified for shared use by federal and non-federal users by the Departments of Commerce and Defense; reallocating bands made available in the Spectrum Frontiers proceeding to terrestrial wireless use; and an auction of the spectrum required by the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2015. Other auctions that may continue to be a focus for the Commission in FY 2024 include re-auctions of certain licenses previously offered and not won or returned to the Commission. Commission staff will also oversee the reimbursement process and the work of a Relocation Payment Clearinghouse in the 3.45 GHz band. The Commission will also continue to leverage auctions expertise and infrastructure to support reverse auctions that allocate Universal Service funding in an efficient and effective manner. Specifically, the Commission has adopted rules to make available through reverse auctions up to $9 billion in the 5G Fund to support deployment of mobile broadband in unserved areas. In addition, the Commission is continually working to update and modernize its auction bidding and application systems to improve their speed, flexibility, reliability, and security to support timely new auctions when additional spectrum that could be made available is identified. In FY 2024, the Commission will continue implementation of the RAY BAUM’S Act, including working with NTIA to identify 255 megahertz of additional spectrum (subject to certain frequency and use requirements) for mobile and fixed broadband use; preparing annual reports on upcoming systems of competitive bidding; and coordinating with the Departments of Commerce and Defense on initiatives related to shared spectrum allocations, bidirectional sharing, and commercial wireless use in the 3100-3550 MHz bands; and monitoring post-auction operations in bands subject to spectrum sharing and/or transition to new flexible uses. In addition, a significant Commission auction focus in FY 2024 will be to continue post-broadcast incentive auction implementation. The auction required that 987 full power and Class A television stations be repacked into a new, smaller TV band, which involved reorganizing and assigning channels to the remaining broadcast television stations to create contiguous blocks of cleared spectrum suitable for flexible wireless use. The scope of the repacking component of this auction has made it a unique and computationally complex challenge that will continue to require substantial resources and engagement from the Commission until all stations are operating on their permanent facilities and the reimbursement process has been completed. Such active oversight of the process will continue to require Commission staff resources to coordinate with broadcasters to monitor broadcaster progress, identify and resolve transition-related problems and challenges, process applications, review and verify information, undertake and complete the ongoing reimbursement program and, as appropriate, conduct subsequent verifications and audits of the reimbursements. 40 For example, we will continue to make disbursements from the TVBRF to eligible entities In addition, although the repacked full power and Class A television stations were required to vacate their pre-auction channels by July 2020, there will be continuing application processing and license to cover filings and other transition processing required after that time for both full power and Class A stations, and LPTV/translator stations. For example, LPTV/translator stations are not subject to the same construction deadlines as full power and Class A Stations, and a number of the full power and Class A stations that vacate their pre-auction channels are still operating on interim facilities while they continue to construct their permanent facilities while other stations, particularly those located on the most complicated broadcast towers, have remaining repack-related construction work to complete even after the stations have fully transitioned to their repacked channels. The post-auction transition also requires continued engagement of the Fund Administrator, which is overseen by Commission staff, to administer the reimbursement of up to $2.7 billion to the eligible entities by reviewing cost estimates and invoices to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. The REA permits the Commission to obligate funds in the TVBRF until July 3, 2023 and the Commission may reimburse entities from obligated funds for a period of 5 years thereafter, during which time the Commission staff will continue to administer reimbursement of previously obligated funds for reimbursement of eligible expenses . Finally, the Commission will continue to devote significant resources in FY 2024 towards implementation efforts to transition a 280-megahertz block of spectrum in the 3.7-4.0 GHz band, plus a 20-megahertz guard band, from incumbent use to new flexible-use now that the related auction is complete. All eligible incumbent space station operators elected to clear according to the following accelerated timeline: (1) clearing 120 megahertz (3.7-3.82 GHz) by December 5, 2021, and (2) clearing the remaining 180 megahertz (3.82-4.0 GHz) by December 5, 2023. If both these deadlines are met, the incumbent space station operators will be eligible for accelerated relocation payments of up to $9.7 billion, to be paid by the new flexible-use licensees. Incumbent fixed- satellite service (FSS) and fixed service (FS) licensees, as well as incumbent earth station operators, may also seek reimbursement of reasonable relocation costs paid by flexible-use licensees as a condition on their license. The first clearing deadline was met by all eligible incumbent space station operators. Commission staff will establish a process for reviewing certifications by the incumbent space station operators who elected accelerated relocation to determine whether they have met their second clearing deadline and qualify for the accelerated relocation payments. Commission staff are also overseeing the reimbursement process and the work of a Relocation Payment Clearinghouse, who manages the intake, payout, and auditing of relocation funds, serves in an administrative role to mediate disputes related to such costs, and provides progress reports to the Commission. Likewise, Commission staff are overseeing technical aspects of the transition being managed by an external Relocation Coordinator, who is tasked with establishing a timeline and taking actions necessary to migrate and filter incumbent earth stations to ensure continued, uninterrupted service during and following the transition. Should the Relocation Coordinator receive notice of any substantive transition disputes between space station and earth station operators, it must notify Commission staff who will resolve such disputes. Commission staff will also handle any appeals of disputes mediated by the Relocation Payment Clearinghouse in the first instance. The enacted and estimated FTE levels for the spectrum auctions program for FYs 2022 through 2024 are shown on page 15. At the end of the Spectrum Auctions section is a crosswalk showing how spectrum auctions program funds will be utilized in FY 2024. 41 The following two schedules provide some details of the spectrum auctions program since its inception in 1994. These schedules also provide some perspective into how much money was collected/generated for the U.S. Treasury or for broader government use and the total cost for running the Commission’s spectrum auctions program. Spectrum Auctions and Cash Collected/Generated by Fiscal Year Fiscal Years 1994 through December 31, 2022 Number of Number of Licenses Amount Fiscal Year Auctions Won Collected/Generated 1994 2 604 $652,954 1995 2 129 $8,234,321 1996 6 2,026 $2,019,376 1997 4 1,614 $2,205,922 1998 2 1,388 $860,879 1999 6 1,693 $499,599 2000 8 4,403 $1,335,043 2001 4 3,447 $583,600 2002 7 7,036 $135,631 2003 7 3,144 $77,122 2004 5 267 $126,790 2005 6 2,803 $2,208,333 Thousands in Dollars 2006 5 1,284 $13,834,979 2007 5 290 $163,430 2008 3 1,144 $18,988,396 2009 2 115 $5,696 2010 3 4,788 $25,973 2011 3 126 $31,493 2012 1 93 $3,878 2013 2 3,197 $5,784 2014 2 186 $1,564,597 2015 2 1,713 $41,776,426 2016 0 0 $0 2017 1 2,776 $19,306,993 2018 2 41 $806 2019 3 5,880 $2,724,006 2020 2 34,767 $12,136,648 2021 2 5,781 $81,127,067 2022 3 11,931 $22,868,100 Totals 100 102,666 $233,503,841 42 Spectrum Auctions Program – Cash Collected/Generated vs. Expenditures Fiscal Years 1994 through December 31, 2022 (Dollars in Millions) $233,504 $2,455 $0 $30,000 $60,000 $90,000 $120,000 $150,000 $180,000 $210,000 $240,000 $270,000 Amount Collected/Generated Cumulative Expenditures Cumulative Expenditures include the amount enacted for FY 2023. Crosswalk - Summary of Changes for Spectrum Auctions Program (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 Non-Salary FY 2024 FY 2023 FY 2024 Salary Inflationary Estimates to Enacted Base Increase Increase Congress Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau $155 $155 $0 $3 $158 International Bureau $3 $3 $0 $0 $3 Media Bureau $2,300 $2,300 $0 $46 $2,346 Wireless Telecommunications Bureau $3,705 $3,705 $0 $74 $3,779 Office of Administrative Law Judges $2 $2 $0 $0 $2 Office of Economics and Analytics $13,631 $13,631 $0 $274 $13,905 Office of Engineering and Technology $61 $61 $0 $1 $62 Office of General Counsel $32 $32 $0 $1 $33 Office of Managing Director $74,253 $74,253 $0 $1,380 $75,633 Office of Media Relations $38 $38 $0 $1 $39 Office of Workplace Diversity $13 $13 $0 $0 $13 Compensation & Benefits $38,038 $38,038 $2,156 $0 $40,194 Office of Inspector General $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 TOTAL $132,231 $132,231 $2,156 $1,780 $136,167 43 This page is intentionally left blank 44 Budget Authorities Already Provided COVID-19 Telehealth Program Due to the novel coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the Commission established the COVID-19 Telehealth Program through a Report and Order released on April 2, 2020. The COVID-19 Telehealth Program is funded through a $200 million Congressional appropriation as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to immediately support eligible health care providers responding to the pandemic by providing funding for telecommunications services, information services, and connected devices necessary to provide critical connected care services whether for treatment of the COVID-19 disease or other health conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Telehealth Program is an emergency funding program that is designed to provide flexibility for eligible health care providers that apply for and receive funding commitments, and then request reimbursement for eligible expenses that they have purchased and received from their service providers or vendors under the COVID-19 Telehealth Program. In order to seek funding under the CARES Act (Round 1), eligible health care providers were required to submit an application to the Commission, including information on the costs of the services and/or connected devices for which they plan to seek reimbursement. The Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau), in consultation with the FCC’s Connect2Health Task Force, reviewed the COVID-19 Telehealth Program applications, as outlined in the Report and Order, selected participants, and made funding awards on a rolling basis to eligible applicants based on the estimated costs of the eligible items they intended to purchase with the COVID-19 Telehealth Program funds. Selected funding recipients received a funding commitment letter providing their award amount and additional information about certain COVID-19 Telehealth Program requirements and procedures. Consistent with the Report and Order, applications from areas that were hardest hit by COVID-19 and where funding had the most impact on addressing a community’s health care needs, were prioritized. In order to ensure as many applicants as possible received available funding under the CARES Act, the Bureau did not award more than $1 million to any single applicant. The Commission stopped accepting applications for Round 1 funding under the COVID-19 Telehealth Program on June 25, 2020. Awards were made until the appropriated Round 1 funding under the COVID-19 Telehealth Program was exhausted, which occurred on July 8, 2020. The Bureau issued $200 million in total COVID-19 Telehealth Program Round 1 funding commitments for 539 applications. After paying for and receiving the eligible services and/or connected devices from the service provider or vendor, funding recipients must submit to the Commission: a request seeking reimbursement; invoice documentation sufficient to identify the eligible items that were purchased and received, and the price paid; and, if applicable, a Letter of Authorization for those applicants that received a funding commitment on behalf of other eligible health care provider sites. Under Round 1 of the COVID-19 Telehealth Program, the Commission reimburses funding recipients the full cost of the eligible services and/or connected devices received so long as the invoice submissions are accompanied by the required supporting documentation. After the reimbursement request is approved by the Commission, payment is issued by the U.S. Department of Treasury electronically to the bank account on file associated with the funding recipient. 45 On December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 was signed into law, which appropriated an additional $249.95 million to the Commission’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program (Round 2). This additional funding allowed the Commission to continue its efforts to expand telehealth throughout the country and enable patients to access necessary health care services while helping slow the spread of the disease. Per congressional directive, the Commission was required to seek comment on various ideas related to committing the new funding, including the criteria to use to evaluate applications and how to treat pending applications from Round 1. The Commission released a Public Notice seeking comment on these issues on January 6, 2021. On March 30, 2021, the Commission released a Report and Order and Order on Reconsideration setting forth additional details about the policies and procedures that would apply during Round 2. On April 15, 2021, the Bureau released a Public Notice announcing the duration of the Round 2 application filing window, which opened on April 29, 2021 and closed on May 6, 2021. On August 26, 2021, the Bureau released a Public Notice announcing the first group of funding to 62 awardees totaling $41.98 million for Round 2 of its COVID-19 Telehealth Program. Health care providers in each state, territory, and the District of Columbia, including those previously unfunded in Round 1, will use this funding to provide telehealth services during the coronavirus pandemic. The Bureau then released three additional Public Notices, on September 29, October 21, and November 9, committing over $150 million. At this point, consistent with the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, a 10-day window was provided for unfunded applicants to supplement or clarify their applications. A November 9 Public Notice announced that the period began November 9 and ended November 19. The same Public Notice provided guidance for applicants who wanted to supplement their applications. After the 10-day supplemental period ended, applications were re-ranked, and funding was awarded to the highest-scoring remaining applications. On December 21, 2021, the Bureau released a Public Notice committing funding to an additional 68 applicants. On January 26, 2022, the Bureau released its sixth and final Public Notice, which committed funding to 100 applicants. In total, 447 awardees received over $256 million in funding commitments as part of Round 2 of the Program. As of August 2022, Round 2 participants were implementing their programs, purchasing necessary equipment and services, and submitting reimbursement requests. On July 29, 2022, a Public Notice announced that the deadline for all purchases and implementation of services was October 31, 2022 and the deadline for submission of all invoices and requests for reimbursement is October 31, 2023. Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (Broadband DATA) Act and Broadband Deployment Locations Map The Commission has long recognized that precise, granular data on the availability of fixed and mobile broadband are vital to bringing digital opportunity to all Americans, no matter where they live, work, or travel. On March 23, 2020, the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act) was signed into law requiring the Commission to create a new set of broadband availability maps. Among other things, the Broadband DATA Act requires the Commission to collect standardized, granular data on the availability and quality of both fixed and mobile broadband Internet access services, to create a common dataset of all locations where fixed broadband Internet access service can be installed (the Broadband Serviceable Location 46 Fabric or Fabric), and to create publicly available coverage maps. The Act further requires the Commission to establish processes for members of the public and other entities to (1) provide verified data for use in the coverage maps; (2) challenge the coverage maps, the broadband availability data submitted by service providers, and the Fabric; and (3) submit specific crowdsource information about the development and availability of broadband service. In July 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that adopted rules for the collection and verification of improved, more precise data on both fixed and mobile broadband availability. In January 2021, the Commission released a Third Report and Order that took additional steps to ensure that both the new data collection itself, and the measures for verifying the accuracy of the data collected, will yield a robust and reliable data resource for the Commission, Congress, federal and state policymakers, and consumers to evaluate the status of broadband deployment throughout the United States. On December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 was signed into law appropriating $98 million in funding for the implementation of the Broadband DATA Act. After receiving this funding, the Chairwoman established the Broadband Data Task Force (Task Force) in February 2021 to lead the cross-agency effort to implement the Act. Since then, the Task Force, working closely with multiple Commission Bureaus and Offices, has moved ahead with the complex and interrelated workstreams that must be accomplished as expeditiously as possible to enable the Commission to produce precise and consistent maps of broadband availability and thereby to assure that federal and state funding efforts can be predicated on such accurate information. On February 22, 2022, the Commission announced the opening of the initial filing window of the BDC would be June 30, 2022. All fixed and mobile providers of mass-market broadband Internet access service were required to file broadband availability data as of June 30, 2022, no later than September 1, 2022. Going forward, providers of mass-market broadband Internet access service will file broadband availability data on a biannual basis, as of December 31 and June 30 each year. On December 27, 2022, the Commission announced that the second filing window of the BDC would open on January 3, 2023, and required all fixed and mobile providers of mass-market broadband Internet access service to submit broadband availability data as of December 31, 2022, no later than March 1, 2023. On September 12, 2022, following the deadline for filing of service availability data in the inaugural data collection that commenced on June 30, 2022, the Commission began accepting bulk challenges to the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric from state, local and Tribal governments and internet service providers. That process enabled the Commission and its contractor to augment their efforts to update and improve the Fabric in advance of the opening of the second data collection as of December 31, 2022. A revised version of the Fabric incorporating the results of the challenges, as well as other updates and refinements was made available to licensees for use in the second collection window that opened on January 3, 2023. On November 18, 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of its new National Broadband Map based on the availability data submitted by providers. The new map is the most comprehensive, granular and standardized data the Commission has ever made available on broadband availability. On the same day, the Commission announced the beginning of the fixed and mobile availability challenge processes, and the individual Fabric challenge process. This began an ongoing, iterative process that will improve the data submitted by providers by incorporating challenges from individuals and other stakeholders. In light of the collection of more precise location-specific availability data in the Broadband Data Collection, the Commission adopted an Order on December 19, 2022, to sunset the Form 477 broadband deployment data 47 collection that would eliminate a largely duplicative requirement on service providers. As a result, internet service providers will no longer be required to submit Form 477 broadband deployment data, but must still submit broadband and voice subscription data using the FCC Form 477, but filers will submit their data through the BDC system. Among other things, implementing the Broadband DATA Act required the Commission to develop complex data platform and systems to collect and map data collected from over 2500 internet service providers and for consumers and other stakeholders to submit challenges to that data, to develop a Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric database upon which data would be overlaid, and to establish a help center to provide technical assistance to providers, consumers and other stakeholders. In February 2021, the Commission retained an expert data architect to work with the Commission’s own data and IT systems specialists to design and build a prototype of a data flow structure and system for the Broadband Data Collection (BDC), and on July 2, 2021, after a competitive bid process, awarded a contract to build that data platform. The Commission relies on this platform to accept broadband availability coverage data submissions from service providers and other entities, map that data and make it public, receive, track, and resolve challenges to submitted data, and incorporate crowdsourced data from the FCC Speed Test app and other sources. The decision to contract with the same firm to build the IT platform and systems permitted development to begin immediately once the architecture was decided upon. The first phase of the new BDC system was developed and tested in time for the Commission to announce the opening of the system slightly ahead of schedule. On March 4, 2022, the Commission published detailed technical specifications for the submission of subscription, availability and supporting data into the BDC filing platform. On June 23, 2022, the Task Force issued a public notice announcing early access to certain portions of the BDC system for filers to register in advance of the opening of the initial filing window. In March 2021, the Commission issued a Request for Information and, in June 2021, a subsequent Request for Proposal (RFP) to seek vendors capable of building the Fabric. Vendor proposals were due on July 1, 2021; however, the Commission received a pre-award protest filed with the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) following the RFP response deadline, which the agency worked to quickly resolve by issuing a revised RFP to all offerors on August 13, 2021. Revised proposals were due on August 26 and, after expeditiously reviewing these highly technical and detailed responses in a manner consistent with government solicitation practices, the Commission awarded the contract for Fabric development on November 9, 2021. Following this decision, a post-award protest was filed with GAO and Fabric development was stayed until a decision from GAO was issued on February 24, 2022, resolving the protest in the Commission’s favor. The Commission immediately lifted the stop work order and, with its contractor, finalized and made available to Internet service providers and governmental entities, the first version of the Fabric on June 23, 2022, in advance of the June 30, 2022, opening of the filing window for the BDC. The Commission has engaged in additional procurement efforts and has retained outside resources to assist in providing technical assistance to Internet service providers as well as to participants in the challenge process, as required under the Broadband DATA Act. To supplement these efforts, the FCC has executed two separate contracts with an outside firm to provide technical assistance for both filers of broadband availability data (including state agencies possessing verified data) and stakeholders, such as states, seeking to challenge the availability data submitted by internet service providers and the broadband serviceable locations set out in the Fabric. These resources include help desk support for answering basic questions related to the filing requirements, as well as specialized Geographic Information System (GIS) support for preparing and submitting verified 48 broadband availability data. In April 2022, the Task Force also launched an online help center and other new resources to assist Internet service providers and other filers of verified broadband availability data prepare their submissions for the BDC filing windows. The resources include video webinars and tutorials, technical assistance information, and an option to request additional assistance. The Commission also addressed the remaining legal and policy issues associated with implementing the challenge, crowdsource and verification processes. This framework empowers consumers, state, local, and Tribal governments, and other parties to challenge, and thereby improve, the accuracy of the maps by sharing data with the Commission. On March 9, 2022, the Task Force, WTB, OEA, and OET released a detailed order, technical appendix, rules and technical data specifications setting forth technical requirements and specifications for the mobile challenge, verification, and crowdsource processes required by the Act. Individual consumers are now able to submit mobile challenge and crowdsource data using mobile speed test apps, such as the FCC Speed Test app. To this end, in September 2021, the Commission executed a contract modification with the FCC Speed Test app developer to develop the additional functionality for the mobile challenge and crowdsource processes, and on March 9, published detailed technical specifications for the submission of mobile speed test data into the BDC. The Task Force unveiled an updated FCC Speed Test App on November 18, 2022, that enables consumers and other stakeholders to dispute the availability of mobile broadband service using on-the-ground speed test data. To assist entities that choose to file mobile challenges in bulk, on September 15, 2022, the Task Force and WTB established a process for entities to use their own software and hardware to collect on-the- ground mobile speed test data for use in the BDC mobile challenge process. In July 2022, the Commission awarded a contract to acquire propagation modeling software and automation services for use in verifying the accuracy of mobile providers’ broadband availability maps. To supplement this effort, the Commission is finalizing efforts to procure additional radiofrequency data analysis and consulting services to conduct ongoing review of data submitted by providers including link budgets, network monitoring results, infrastructure data, etc. The Commission is also assisting stakeholders, including state, local, and Tribal government entities, to participate in the ongoing data collection, challenge, and verification processes. In addition to engaging directly in discussions with state and other governmental partners, on December 8, 2021, the Task Force, in conjunction with the FCC’s Office of Native Affairs and Policy, hosted an initial workshop for Tribal governments to provide information about the BDC program and technical assistance on the procedures that Tribes will use to submit verified availability data to the Commission. In April 2022, the Task Force, WCB, WTB, OEA, and OET issued guidance to state, local, and Tribal governmental entities for filing verified broadband availability data as part of the BDC. The Task Force also hosted a live system preview for Internet service providers on June 29, 2021. The Task Force has also hosted filing workshops for Internet service providers throughout August 2022, and the Consumer and Government Affairs Bureau hosted a July 2022 webinar to answer questions on the Broadband Data Collection system for Tribal leaders, Tribal broadband providers and other Tribal filers who would submit data in the inaugural filing window. The Commission has also assisted and educated consumers, service providers, governmental entities, and others about the various challenge processes. Parallel with the beginning of the bulk fabric challenge process, on September 22, 2022, the FCC hosted a fabric challenge filing workshop to assist licensees with collecting and formatting data to be used to challenge locations on the Fabric. Additionally, on September 15, 2022, ahead of the beginning of the availability challenge process, the FCC released detailed data specifications for submitting fixed challenges in bulk. To assist entities submitting bulk challenges to the fixed availability data, the Commission posted a 49 tutorial video and on November 30, 2022, hosted a technical assistance workshop to provide an overview of the fixed bulk availability challenge process and walk filers through the process of submitting challenge data. Most recently, the Commission on December 15, 2022, posted video tutorials to assist providers of fixed broadband service with responding to challenges. The Commission has also developed a toolkit of consumer-directed outreach materials and is working with state, local and Tribal governments, organizations and other stakeholders to coordinate efforts to educate consumers about the new maps and how they can participate in the challenge processes to improve their accuracy. All of these resources have been posted on the FCC’s website and the BDC Help Center to assist entities with submitting data for the biannual BDC filing, challenge, or crowdsource processes. On November 15, 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (the IIJA) was signed into law. The IIJA amended the Broadband DATA Act to require the Commission to resolve challenges no later than 90 days after the date on which a final response by a provider to a challenge is complete, and to implement this new requirement as soon as possible after the date of enactment of the IIJA. The IIJA also appropriated $10 million to the Commission, in consultation with all relevant Federal agencies, for the creation of a Broadband Deployment Locations Map, a public resource that will show the locations of broadband infrastructure projects funded by the Federal Government. The Commission is working expeditiously to implement these and other relevant provisions of the IIJA. The IIJA requires that the Broadband Deployment Locations Map be made publicly available on the Commission’s website no later than May 2023. The Commission has engaged the same firm working to build the systems for the Broadband Data Collection to build out data collection and map to meet the IIJA’s requirements. In addition, Commission staff are meeting with staff from executive agencies to develop system requirements and ensure alignment among agencies that will report data. Secure & Trusted Communications Network Reimbursement Program On March 12, 2020, the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (Secure Networks Act) was signed into law. The Secure Networks Act, among other measures, directed the Commission to establish the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program (Reimbursement Program) to fund the removal, replacement, and disposal of covered communications equipment or services that pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of U.S. persons from the networks of providers of advanced communications service. Specifically, the Reimbursement Program assists providers of advanced communications service with the costs of permanently removing, replacing, and disposing of communications equipment and services produced or provided by Huawei Technologies Company (Huawei) and ZTE Corporation (ZTE) and obtained by the providers on or before June 30, 2020. On December 10, 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order implementing the Secure Networks Act by establishing rules for the Reimbursement Program. The Reimbursement Program provides funding allocations to eligible providers of advanced communications service based on their estimated costs. Reimbursement Program recipients can then obtain funding disbursements from their allocation upon showing of actual expenses incurred. Reimbursement Program recipients will have one year from the initial disbursement to complete the permanent removal, replacement, and disposal of covered communications equipment or services, unless a general or individual extensions of that deadline is granted by the Commission. Recipients of Reimbursement Program funds shall use these funds solely to: (1) permanently remove covered 50 communications equipment and services from their networks; (2) replace the covered communications equipment and services with non-covered equipment or services; and (3) dispose of the covered communications equipment and services, in accordance with the Secure Networks Act and the Commission’s rules. On December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (Consolidated Appropriations Act), was signed into law. The legislation, among other things, appropriated $1.9 billion to “carry out” the Reimbursement Program. In addition, the legislation amended the Secure Networks Act, expanding program eligibility from providers of advanced communications service with two million or fewer customers to providers with ten million or fewer customers. The Consolidated Appropriations Act also amended the definition of a provider of advanced communications service to specifically include certain non-commercial education institutions, healthcare providers, and libraries providing advanced communications service, and added a method for prioritizing funding that differs from the approach adopted by the Commission in the Second Report and Order. The Commission released a Third Report and Order, on July 14, 2021, implementing the changes required by the Consolidated Appropriations Act and making additional clarifications about the Reimbursement Program. Notably, the Commission stated that the Reimbursement Program is limited to reimbursing the costs of removal, replacement, and disposal to communications equipment and service produced or provided by Huawei and ZTE that was obtained on or before June 30, 2020. On April 28, 2021, the Commission’s Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) announced the selection of a contractor as the Reimbursement Program Fund Administrator to assist with processing applications and administering the Reimbursement Program. On August 3, 2021, the Bureau released a public notice adopting final procedures for and providing eligible providers of advanced communications services with additional guidance regarding the application filing and reimbursement process for the Reimbursement Program. The Bureau also finalized the information fields on the new FCC Form 5640, which participants must submit to request funding allocations and disbursements from the Reimbursement Program. The filing window to accept applications to participate in the Reimbursement Program opened on October 29, 2021 and closed on January 28, 2022. The Commission received 181 applications. The Bureau issued approval and denial decisions on applications on July 15, 2022 and proceeded with issuing allocations consistent with the requirements of the Secure Networks Act and the Commission’s rules. To date, the FCC has obligated all of the funds except $54 million. The remaining $54 million is needed for program administration and any potential appeals. On July 15, 2022, the FCC informed Congress that following its review of applications submitted under the Reimbursement Program, the amount of supplemental funding needed to fully fund all reasonable and supported cost estimates for all prioritization groups and cover administrative expenses is $3.08 billion. Emergency Broadband Connectivity Fund-Emergency Broadband Benefit Program and Affordable Connectivity Fund-Affordable Connectivity Program On December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (Consolidated Appropriations Act), was signed into law. In the Consolidated Appropriations Act, Congress appropriated $3.2 billion for the Emergency Broadband Connectivity Fund for fiscal year 2021, to remain available 51 until expended or six months after the end of the public health emergency. The Consolidated Appropriations Act directed the Commission to use that funding to establish the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program, under which eligible low-income households may receive a discount off the cost of broadband service and certain connected devices during an emergency period relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, and participating providers can receive a reimbursement for such discounts. Enrollments in the EBB Program ceased on December 30, 2021 and the successor program, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) began on December 31, 2021. On November 15, 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, 2021 (Infrastructure Act), was signed into law. In the Infrastructure Act, Congress appropriated $14.2 billion for the Affordable Connectivity Fund, to remain available until expended. The Infrastructure Act directed the Commission to use that funding to establish the ACP, under which eligible low-income households may receive a discount off of the cost of broadband service and certain connected devices, and participating providers can receive a reimbursement for passing such discounts on to eligible households. To participate in the ACP, a provider must elect to participate, and either be designated as an eligible telecommunications carrier or be approved by the Commission. Participating providers make available to eligible households a monthly discount off the cost of an Internet service offering and associated equipment, up to $30.00 per month. On qualifying Tribal lands, the monthly discount may be up to $75.00 per month. Participating providers receive reimbursement from the ACP for the discounts provided. Participating providers that also supply an eligible household with a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet (connected device) may receive a single reimbursement of up to $100.00 for the connected device, if the charge to and payment from the eligible household for that device is more than $10.00 but less than $50.00. A participating provider may receive reimbursement for only one supported device per eligible household. Providers must submit certain certifications to the Commission to receive reimbursement from the ACP, and the Commission is required to adopt audit requirements to ensure provider compliance and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. In implementing the ACP, the Infrastructure Act permits the Commission to apply rules contained in part 54 of the Commission’s rules, including those governing the Lifeline program. The Infrastructure Act further permits the Commission to avail itself of the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC)’s, the administrator of the universal service support programs, services to administer the ACP. Specifically, the Infrastructure Act required the Commission to adopt rules implementing the ACP by January 14, 2022. Consistent with the Infrastructure Act, the Commission adopted a Report and Order on January 14, 2022 adopting the rules and policies creating and governing the ACP. The Commission has established processes and systems to administer the ACP, including approval and election processes for broadband providers to participate, consumer application and enrollment processes, and provider reimbursement processes. Consumers can apply for the ACP through the National Verifier at https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/or through service providers’ alternative verification processes. Following the Infrastructure Act’s direction for the Commission to engage in outreach to ACP eligible households, including providing grants to outreach partners, the Commission has 52 established the Affordable Connectivity Outreach Grant Program, the Your Home, Your Internet, Pilot Program, and the ACP Navigator Pilot Program. On August 5, 2022, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order, establishing the Affordable Connectivity Outreach Grant Program. In the order, the Commission established rules and guidelines for grant applicants including, eligibility and reporting requirements, funding mechanisms, application submission and review procedures. The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the ACP Outreach Grants was released on November 10, 2022 and the application deadline was January 9, 2023. On August 5, 2022, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order, establishing the Your Home, Your Internet Pilot Program. In this order, the Commission established rules and guidelines for housing agencies to participate in a pilot program, enhancing the ACP application process, and providing approved participants access to the National Verifier. The application window for the Your Home, Your Internet Pilot Program and the ACP Navigator Program and the related grant funding opportunity opened on November 21, 2022 and closed on January 9, 2023. The Infrastructure Act also requires the Commission to adopt rules for the collection of price and subscription rates of internet service offerings of ACP providers. On November 15, 2022, the FCC adopted an Order establishing the data to be collected, the mechanism for collecting the data, and the format of the data’s publication. As of February 6, 2023 over 16 million households were participating ACP. The Commission will release enrollment data to inform its evolving awareness efforts, increase transparency in the ACP, and empower its outreach partners to better target awareness and enrollment efforts. The Commission looks forward to working with Congress to extend this program and ensure that it continues to provide critical benefits to millions of households. Emergency Connectivity Fund To help schools and libraries provide connected devices, such as a laptop, tablet, or similar end- user devices, and broadband connectivity to students, school staff, and library patrons during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) emergency period, Congress established a $7.171 billion Emergency Connectivity Fund (the Fund) to remain available until September 30, 2030, as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (American Rescue Plan Act) signed into law on March 11, 2021. Per congressional directive, the Commission was required to promulgate rules providing for the distribution of funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund to eligible schools and libraries for the purchase of eligible equipment and/or advanced telecommunications and information services for use by students, school staff, and library patrons at locations other than a school or library within 60 days from the date of enactment. Consistent with this congressional directive, on March 16, 2021, the Wireline Competition Bureau sought comment on the provision of support from the Emergency Connectivity Fund consistent with section 7402 of the American Rescue Plan Act. Subsequently, on May 10, 2021, the Commission established the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program and promulgated rules for the distribution of funding from the Fund. The initial Emergency Connectivity Fund Program application filing window opened on June 29, 2021 and closed on August 13, 2021. During the initial application filing window, eligible schools, libraries, and consortia of eligible schools and 53 libraries, submitted requests for funding to purchase eligible equipment and services between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022 for use by students, school staff and library patrons who would otherwise lack sufficient access to connected devices and/or broadband connectivity to engage in remote learning during the COVID-19 emergency period. On August 25, 2021, the Commission announced that it received requests for $5.137 billion to fund 9.1 million connected devices and 5.4 million broadband connections during the first application filing window. The first application filing window attracted applications from all 50 states, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia – including schools and libraries in both rural and urban communities seeking funding for eligible equipment and services received or delivered between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. In view of outstanding demand and the recent spike in coronavirus cases, the FCC opened a second application filing window for schools and libraries to request funding for connected devices and broadband connections for off-campus to meet the unmet needs of students, school staff, and library patrons during the current school year (i.e., July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022). The second Emergency Connectivity Fund Program application filing window opened on September 28 and closed on October 13, 2021. On October 25, 2021, the Commission announced that it received requests for nearly $1.3 billion during the second application filing window to fund nearly 2.4 million connected devices and over 564,000 broadband connections. On March 23, 2022, the Commission announced that a third application filing window would open on April 28, 2022, and close on May 13, 2022, and that it expected at least $1 billion was available for commitments and disbursements for this third window. During the third filing window, eligible schools and libraries could request funding for eligible equipment, non-recurring services, and up to 12 months of recurring services that will be delivered or received between July 1, 2022, through December 31, 2023. On May 25, 2022, the Commission announced that it received requests for over $2.8 billion during the third filing window to fund over 5.1 million connected devices and over 4.2 million broadband connections. The Commission also noted that because demand exceeded available funds, the third window requests will be prioritized to fund the schools and libraries with greatest need with a preference given to rural schools and libraries. As of March 1, 2023, the Commission has issued 29 waves of funding commitments for windows 1 and 2, and 19 waves of funding commitments for window 3, collectively totaling over $6.617 billion since the program was launched on June 29, 2021. Total commitments are supporting over 11,000 schools, 1,000 libraries, and 130 consortia for over 12.9 million connected devices and over 8.1 million broadband connections for students, school staff, and library patrons located in all 50 states, American Samoa, the District of Columbia, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 54 Summary Activities for Other Budget Authorities Received in FYs 2020, 2021, & 2022 (Dollars in Thousands) Amount Amount Obligated for Budget Amount Obligated for Program Authority Disbursed Program Use Administration Use COVID-19 Telehealth Program - Round 1 $200,000 $200,000 $6,600 $191,384 COVID-19 Telehealth Program - Round 2 $249,900 $249,653 $0 $135,695 Secure & Trusted Communications Network $1,900,000 $1,834,769 $11,172 $48,668 Reimbursement Program Emergency Broadband Connectivity Fund - $3,200,000 $3,094,117 $63,979 $3,152,050 Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Affordable Connectivity Fund - $14,200,000 $3,231,901 $91,079 $2,634,944 Affordable Connectivity Program Broadband DATA Act $65,000 $8,008 $0 $2,806 Emergency Connectivity Fund $7,171,000 $6,166,265 $109,029 $2,582,919 TOTAL - FY '20 - '22 Other Budget Authorities $26,985,900 $14,784,713 $281,859 $8,748,465 Note: Amounts dedicated to OIGfor COVID-19 Telehealth Program - Round 2 and Emergency Connectivity Fund are not included in the amounts shown above. The amounts shown are as of December 31, 2022. 55 Summary of Commission’s All Other Budget Authorities (Dollars in Thousands) Fiscal Years TOTAL Other Budget Authorities Already Provided:1 2020 2021 2022 COVID-19 Telehealth Program2 $200,000 $249,950 $449,950 Secure & Trusted Communications Network Reimbursement Program3 $1,900,000 $1,900,000 Emergency Broadband Connectivity Fund - Emergency Broadband $3,200,000 $3,200,000 Benefit Program4 Broadband DATA Act5 $65,000 $65,000 Emergency Connectivity Fund6 $7,172,000 $7,172,000 Affordable Connectivity Fund7 $14,200,000 $14,200,000 TOTAL - New Direct Appropriations $200,000 $12,586,950 $14,200,000 $26,986,950 Fiscal Years TOTAL 2012 2018 2019 TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund (TVBRF):8 $1,750,000 $600,000 $400,000 $2,750,000 Fiscal Years NET Permanent Indefinite Appropriation & Unused 2022 2023 2024 CHANGE Carryover Funds: Credit Program Account9 $7 $36 $0 -$36 Universal Service Fund Oversight - OIG (unused $1,096 $4,281 $0 -$4,281 carryover funds)10 Total $1,103 $4,316 $0 -$4,316 1Refer to the table on the previous page for a summary and status of these other budget authorities already provided. 2FY 2020 funds were provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (P.L. 116-136) and FY 2021 funds were provided by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260). Included in the FY 2021 funding was an allocation of $50 thousand to OIG for oversight. 3Funds were provided by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260). 4Funds were provided by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260) and not more than $64 million (2%) of the funding was made available for administrative use. 5Funds were provided by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260) and an additional $33 million was also made available under the Commission's S&E - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) for a total of $98 million. 6Funds were provided by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (P.L. 117-2) and not more than $143.42 million (2%) of the funding was made available for administrative use and $1 million to OIG for oversight. 7Funds were provided by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, (P.L. 117-58). 8The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 (2012 Act) mandated that the Commission reimburse reasonable channel relocation costs incurred by those qualified TV Broadcasters that will be affected by spectrum relocation. The 2012 Act also gave the Commission the authority to use $1.75 billion from Incentive Auction revenues to reimburse TV Broadcasters for relocation costs. Additional authority totaling $1 billion was provided to the Commission for this and for other purposes by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (P.L. 115-141). The TVBRF is capped at $2.75 billion. 9A permanent indefinite appropriation for credit reform that becomes available pursuant to a standing provision of law without further action by Congress. FCC is working on closing out this fund and requested no funding for FY 2023 and estimates no funds for FY 2024. 10 Repressents unused carryover fund from prior fiscal years. Any remaining unused funds from FY 2023 will be carried over to FY 2024. 56 ECONOMY ACT REIMBURSABLE AGREEMENTS The Economy Act provides authority for Federal agencies to order goods and services from other Federal agencies and be reimbursed for costs of those goods and services. An interagency agreement is an arrangement in which one agency (Servicing Agency) provides goods or services to another agency (Requesting Agency) and receives reimbursement of costs incurred. Agencies can use interagency agreements to conduct a wide variety of operations. Interagency agreements can be routine in nature, involve the acquisition of goods or services necessary to maintain agency operations, or support a specific program. As the Servicing Agency, the Commission requested $4 million in Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements with other Federal agencies in FY 2023. The Commission estimates that in FY 2024, the FCC’s interagency reimbursable agreements will remain consistent at approximately $4 million. 57 This page is intentionally left blank 58 FEE COLLECTIONS 59 This page is intentionally left blank 60 Regulatory Fees Pursuant to 47 U.S.C. § 159, the Commission annually collects regulatory fees and retains them for Commission use to offset certain costs incurred by the Commission to carry out its functions. These regulatory fees apply to the current holders of licenses with the FCC as of a specific date and to other entities (e.g., cable television systems) which benefit from Commission regulatory activities that are not directly associated with the FCC’s application processing functions. The regulatory fees do not apply to governmental entities, amateur radio operator licensees, nonprofit entities holding tax exempt status under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. § 501, and certain other non-commercial entities. Under the provisions of 47 U.S.C. § 159, the Commission has the authority to review its regulatory fees and to adjust the fees to reflect changes in its appropriation from year to year. The FCC may also add, delete, or reclassify services under certain circumstances. Additionally, pursuant to 47 U.S.C. § 159a, the Commission may charge up to a 25% late payment penalty and dismiss applications or revoke licenses for non-payment of the fees; the Commission may also waive, reduce, or defer payment of a fee for good cause. The Commission originally implemented the Regulatory Fee Collection Program by rulemaking on July 18, 1994. The most recent regulatory fee order was released by the Commission on September 2, 2022 Availability of Regulatory Fees The RAY BAUM’S Act of 2018 (2018 Act) requires the Commission to transfer all excess collections to the General Fund of the U.S. Treasury for the sole purpose of deficit reduction. On September 30, 2022 the Commission transferred over $4.9 million in excess collections from FY 2022 funds to the General Fund of the U.S. Treasury to be used for deficit reduction. The Commission receives an annual Salaries and Expenses appropriation. On March 1, 2013, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a report to Congress on sequestration for FY 2013. For the FCC, this translated into a $17 million reduction in new budgetary authority. The sequestered amount is currently maintained in the Commission’s no-year account, which indicates that the unobligated balances brought forward exclude $17 million in unavailable balances of funds temporarily sequestered in FY 2013. The FY 2024 request level for regulatory fees is $410,743,000, which is a net increase of $20,551,000 or 5.3 percent from the FY 2023 requested level of $390,192,000. These regulatory fee levels will support Commission-wide goals that will allow the Commission to serve the American public in an efficient, effective, and responsive manner. The distribution of budget authority from offsetting collections from regulatory fees is illustrated in the following graph 61 Historical Distribution of Appropriated Budget Authority – Regulatory Fees The following graph depicts the historical distribution of appropriated budget authority since FY 2013. Dollars in Millions $450 $411 $357 $390 $400 $374 $382 $340 $340 $384 $44 $322 $339 $339 $350 $340 $17 $17 $300 $250 $200 $340 $340 $322 $150 $100 $50 $0 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Regulatory Fees (Collection Authority) Sequestered Amount HQs Move Request For FYs 2016 and 2017, $44 million and $17 million, respectively, represent amounts provided for the necessary expenses associated with moving the FCC headquarters to a new facility to significantly reduce space consumption. In FY 2013, FCC's appropriated budget authority was reduced by $17 million due to the FY 2013 sequestration order implemented on March 1, 2013 as required by the Budget Control Act of 2011. The total amount shown for FY 2013 in the above graph includes the $17 million sequestered amount. The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 62 Historical Appropriated Budget Authority – Spectrum Auctions Program The following graph depicts the historical appropriated budget authority for the spectrum auctions program since FY 2004. Dollars in Millions $150 $136 $130 $133 $134 $132 $117 $117 $130 $128 $7 $3 $110 $114 $110 $111 $106 $90 $99 $99 $85 $70 $50 $30 $10 2004 to 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 -$10 2012 Direct Authority (Appropriation) HQs Move (Appropriated) HQs Move (Non-Appropriated) Requested FY 2024 column represents amount requested. The increase in funding from FY 2019 is to implement the requirements of the RAY BAUM's Act. For FY 2016, $7 million represents an amount provided by appropriation for the necessary expenses associated with moving the FCC headquarters to a new facility to significantly reduce space consumption. For FY 2017, $3 million represents an amount the Commission reserved to ensure adequate funds are available based on GSA's initial estimates. Application Processing Fees Pursuant to 47 U.S.C. § 158, since FY 1987, the Commission has collected and deposited application processing fees, often referred to as Section 8 fees, into the General Fund of the U.S. Treasury. These fees are intended to recover a substantial portion of the costs of the Commission’s application processing functions. The program encompasses over 300 different fees, with the vast majority collected at the time an original license application, renewal, or request for modification is filed with the Commission. Most fees are assessed as a one-time charge on a per-application basis, although there are certain exceptions. Government, nonprofit, and non-commercial broadcast license applicants are exempt from the fees. A commercial bank is used to collect the fees, with all fees deposited into the General Fund of the U.S. Treasury. Once deposited, these fees are generally not refundable regardless of the outcome of the application process. The Commission must review and revise the fees every two years based upon changes to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The most recent Order increasing application fees to reflect changes in the CPI index was adopted by the Commission on December 15, 2022 and released on December 16, 2022. This adjustment complies with the statutory formula set forth in Section 63 8(b). Application Processing Fee Collections (Section 8) and Regulatory Fee collections are summarized in the following graph. Dollars in Millions Fee Collections Fiscal Years 2012 - 2024 $437 $450 $416 $407 $402 $406 $400 $374 $380 $370 $371 $365 $44 $362 $364 $17 $350 $350 $300 $250 $411 $374 $381 $390 $200 $349 $345 $347 $340 $340 $340 $322 $339 $339 $150 $100 $50 $25 $24 $25 $25 $23 $23 $28 $23 $25 $28 25 $26 $26 $0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Section 8 Actual Est. Section 8 Section 9 Actual Est. Section 9 HQs Move For FYs 2016 and 2017, $44 million and $17 million, respectively, represent amounts provided for the necessary expenses associated with moving the FCC headquarters to a new facility to significantly reduce space consumption. The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. The RAY BAUM’S Act of 2018 substantially amended Section 8 of the Communications Act (47 U.S.C. § 158) and provided an effective date of October 1, 2018 for those changes. Congress provided that application fees in effect on the day before the effective date of the RAY BAUM’S Act shall remain in effect until such time as the Commission adjusts or amends such fees. Moving forward after October 1, 2018, the Commission's next amendment of the schedule of application fees will be based on the updated requirements in Section 8 of the Communications Act as amended by the RAY BAUM'S Act. On December 16, 2022 the Commission released an order adjusting and amending application fees based on the requirements of the RAY BAUM’s Act. 64 PERFORMANCE PLAN 65 This page is intentionally left blank 66 PERFORMANCE PLAN Mission As specified in section one of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC or Commission) mission is to “make available, so far as possible, to all the people of the United States, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex, rapid, efficient, Nation-wide, and world-wide wire and radio communication service with adequate facilities at reasonable charges.” 3 In addition, section one provides that the Commission was created “for the purpose of the national defense” and “for the purpose of promoting safety of life and property through the use of wire and radio communications.”4 About the Federal Communications Commission The FCC is an independent regulatory agency of the United States Government. The FCC is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The Commission also regulates telecommunications, advanced communication services, and video programming to promote accessibility for people with disabilities, as set forth in various sections of the Communications Act. The FCC is directed by five Commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate for five-year terms, except when filling the unexpired term of a previous Commissioner. Only three Commissioners can be from the same political party at any given time. The President designates one of the Commissioners to serve as the Chairperson. The FCC is organized by function. There are seven Bureaus and ten Offices. The Bureaus and the Office of Engineering and Technology process applications for licenses to operate facilities and provide communications services; analyze complaints from consumers and other licensees; conduct investigations; develop and implement regulatory programs; inform and educate consumers and conduct outreach, and organize and participate in hearings and workshops. Generally, the Offices provide specialized support services. The Bureaus and Offices are: • The Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau develops and implements consumer policies, including disability access and policies affecting state, local, and Tribal governments. The Bureau also serves as the public face of the Commission through outreach and education and responds to consumer inquiries and informal complaints. The Bureau maintains collaborative partnerships with consumer-facing organizations and state, local, and Tribal governments in such areas as implementation of critical initiatives, implementation of new technologies, and emergency preparedness. In addition, the Bureau’s Disability Rights Office provides expert policy and compliance advice on accessibility with respect to various forms of communications for persons with disabilities. The Bureau also ensures public facing access to the Commission for persons with disabilities via a team of American Sign Language interpreters and accessible formats specialists. • The Enforcement Bureau enforces the Communications Act and the FCC’s rules. It acts to protect consumers and their sensitive information, ensure efficient use of spectrum, further public safety, 3 47 U.S.C. § 151. 4 Id. 67 promote competition, resolve disputes, and protect the integrity of FCC programs and activities from fraud, waste, and abuse. • The International Bureau administers the FCC’s international telecommunications and satellite programs and policies, including licensing and regulatory functions. The Bureau promotes pro- competitive policies abroad, coordinates the FCC’s global spectrum activities, and advocates for U.S. interests in international communications and competition. The Bureau works to promote high- quality, reliable, interconnected, and interoperable communications infrastructure on a global scale. • The Media Bureau recommends, develops, and administers the policy and licensing programs relating to electronic media, including broadcast television and radio, cable television, and satellite television in the United States and its territories. • The Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau develops and implements policies and programs to strengthen public safety communications and interoperability, homeland security, national security, emergency management and preparedness, disaster management, and network reliability and resiliency. These efforts include rulemaking proceedings that promote more efficient use of public safety spectrum, improve public alerting mechanisms, enhance the nation’s 911 emergency calling system, and establish frameworks for communications prioritization during crises. The Bureau also maintains 24/7 operations capability and promotes Commission preparedness to assist the public, first responders, the communications industry, and all levels of government in responding to emergencies and major disasters where reliable public safety communications are essential. Finally, the Bureau coordinates the Commission’s national security mission and consults with the Defense Commissioner pursuant to 47 CFR § 0.181 of the Commission’s rules. • The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau is responsible for wireless telecommunications programs and policies in the United States and its territories, including licensing and regulatory functions. Wireless communications services include cellular, paging, personal communications, mobile broadband, and other radio services used by businesses and private citizens. • The Wireline Competition Bureau develops, recommends, and implements policies and programs for wireline telecommunications, fixed (as opposed to mobile) broadband and telephone lines, striving to promote the widespread development and availability of these services. The Bureau has primary responsibility for the Universal Service Fund which helps connect all Americans to communications networks. • The Office of Administrative Law Judges is composed of one judge (and associated staff) who presides over hearings and issues decisions on matters referred by the FCC. • The Office of Communications Business Opportunities promotes diversity, competition, and innovation in the provision and ownership of telecommunications and information services by supporting opportunities for small businesses, as well as women-owned and minority-owned communications businesses. • The Office of Economics and Analytics provides objective economic analysis to support Commission policy making and implements agency-wide data practices and policies, including implementing significant economically-relevant data collections. The Office also manages the FCC’s auctions in support of and in coordination with the FCC’s Bureaus and Offices. 68 • The Office of Engineering and Technology advises the FCC on technical and engineering matters. This Office develops and administers FCC decisions regarding spectrum allocations and unlicensed devices and coordinates use of the spectrum with the Executive Branch. The Office also oversees the Commission’s equipment authorization program to ensure compliance with technical rules and its experimental licensing program to promote new and innovative technologies and services. • The Office of the General Counsel serves as the FCC’s chief legal advisor. • The Office of the Inspector General conducts and supervises audits and investigations relating to FCC programs and operations. • The Office of Legislative Affairs serves as the liaison between the FCC and Congress, as well as other Federal agencies. • The Office of the Managing Director administers and manages the FCC. • The Office of Media Relations informs the media of FCC decisions and serves as the FCC’s main point of contact with the media. • The Office of Workplace Diversity develops, coordinates, evaluates, and recommends to the Commission policies, programs, and practices that foster a diverse workforce, and promotes and ensures equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability (mental, intellectual, or physical), marital status, parental status, political affiliation, genetic information (including medical history), or any other basis protected by law. Strategic Goals 1. Pursue a “100 Percent” Broadband Policy: The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the serious broadband gaps that exist across the country, including in rural infrastructure, affordability for low-income Americans, and at-home access for students. This continuing digital divide means millions of Americans do not have meaningful access to essential infrastructure for 21st century success. In response to the challenges that many Americans face, the agency should advance access to communications that are essential for Americans to work remotely, learn remotely, receive healthcare, and engage in commerce. To this end, the FCC will pursue policies to help bring affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband to 100 percent of the country. 2. Promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility. The FCC will seek to gain a deeper understanding of how the agency’s rules, policies, and programs may promote or inhibit advances in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. The FCC will pursue focused action and investments to eliminate historical, systemic, and structural barriers that perpetuate disadvantaged or underserved individuals and communities. In so doing, the FCC will work to ensure equitable and inclusive access and facilitate the ability of underserved individuals and communities to leverage and benefit from the wide range of opportunities made possible by digital technologies, media, communication services, and next-generation networks. In addition, the FCC recognizes that it is more effective when its workforce reflects the experience, 69 judgement, and input of individuals from many different backgrounds. Advancing equity is core to the agency’s management and policymaking processes and will benefit all Americans. 3. Empower Consumers: Consumers who are well informed about their rights and what they’re buying are more confident and more likely to participate in the digital economy. The FCC will tackle new challenges to consumer rights and opportunities stemming from digital transitions. The FCC also will pursue effective enforcement and new approaches to protect consumers from unwanted and intrusive communications, phone-based scams, telephone privacy issues, and other trends that affect consumers. The FCC will work to enhance competition and pursue policies that protect the competitive process to improve consumer choice and access to information. The FCC will work to foster a regulatory landscape that advances media competition, diversity, and localism. The FCC also must work to ensure the availability of quality, functionally equivalent communications services for persons with disabilities. 4. Enhance Public Safety and National Security: The FCC will pursue policies to promote the availability of secure, reliable, interoperable, redundant, and rapidly restorable critical communications infrastructure and services. The FCC 5. also will promote the public’s access to reliable 911 and emergency alerting and support public safety’s access to first responder communications. The FCC will work in coordination with state, local, and Tribal governments and territorial government partners, and industry stakeholders to support disaster response and to ensure the nation’s defense and homeland security. 6. Advance America’s Global Competitiveness: The FCC will take action to promote investment and advance the development and deployment of new communications technologies, such as 5G, that will allow the nation to remain a global leader in an increasingly competitive, international marketplace. The FCC will identify incentives and policies to close security gaps and accelerate trustworthy innovation. The FCC will work with its federal partners to advocate for US interests abroad. 7. Foster Operational Excellence: The FCC should be a model for excellence in government by effectively managing its resources, maintaining a commitment to transparent and responsive processes that encourage public involvement and decision-making that best serves the public interest, and encouraging a culture of collaboration both internally and across government agencies. What the FCC Commits to Accomplish in FY 2024 To implement its strategic goals, the FCC has identified several underlying strategic objectives. Each strategic objective has associated performance goals and targets. Strategic Goal 1: Pursue a “100 Percent” Broadband Policy Strategic Objective 1.1: Pursue policies to help bring affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband to 100 percent of the population, including rural areas, and Tribal lands as well as for low-income Americans and students. 70 Performance Goals and Targets: 1.1.1 Evaluate and report on the availability of broadband services throughout the country. • Consistent with the RAY BAUM’S Act, evaluate and prepare a biennial report on the state of the communications marketplaces based on various data collected by the Commission, including FCC Form 477 and the Broadband Data Collection, which is being implemented pursuant to the Broadband DATA Act. • Consistent with Section 706 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, evaluate and prepare an annual report based on various data collected by the Commission to assess whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. • Continue implementation of the Broadband DATA Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) enacted in November 2021 by collecting and mapping broadband availability and data submitted by providers and incorporating stakeholder feedback through the fixed and mobile challenge processes, as well as verification, crowdsourcing, and other efforts. • Continue implementation of the IIJA by collecting and mapping data in the mapping tool required by section 60105 of the IIJA to depict locations subject to federal broadband deployment funding nationwide. • Ensure data collected and used to monitor voice and broadband marketplaces through the Broadband Data Collection, the Measuring Broadband America program, and other avenues are accurate, reliable, and useful to the Commission, Congress, the industry, and the public by identifying potential issues in the data and working with filers as appropriate to clarify or resolve such issues. • Implement Section 60506 of the IIJA by ensuring that all people of the United States benefit from equal access to broadband internet access service. 1.1.2 Support and facilitate the development, deployment, and adoption of broadband services across multiple platforms. • Promote affordable access to reliable broadband networks in American’s rural, insular, and high-cost areas, and to people of color and others who have been historically underserved, persons who live in rural areas, persons with disabilities, and persons otherwise affected by persistent poverty, discrimination, or inequality. • Improve access to healthcare in American’s rural, insular, and high-cost areas, and to people of color and others who have been historically underserved, persons who live in rural areas, persons with disabilities, and persons otherwise affected by persistent poverty, discrimination, or inequality through the Rural Healthcare Program. • Support and study the impact of provisioning telehealth and connected care services through the Connected Care Pilot Program. • Ensure low-income Americans have access to affordable broadband services through the Affordable Connectivity and Lifeline programs. • Ensure that students as well as school staff and library patrons with unmet needs have access to connected devices and broadband services for off campus use through implementation of the Emergency Connectivity Fund. • Connect schools and libraries by providing affordable access to broadband services through the E-Rate program. 71 • Carry out rulemakings, spectrum reallocations, and license application reviews as needed to ensure that the growing demand for broadband services, including satellite-delivered broadband, is met. • Provide support in multi-lateral and bi-lateral settings for deployment of broadband satellite systems, and harmonized cross border spectrum use to avoid harmful interference, including through support to international regulators and ministries to develop licensing processes that foster deployment. • Continue streamlining and updating rules for licensing submarine cables to facilitate timely deployment of undersea broadband facilities. • Ensure competitive access to critical infrastructure to facilitate broadband deployment. 1.1.3 Work in partnership with state, local, and Tribal governments, and consumer and industry groups, to ensure that broadband networks are deployed to all American consumers, including those in Tribal, rural, insular, and high-cost areas. • Implement rules and procedures designed to expand broadband service to rural and Tribal areas through the use of licensed spectrum and unlicensed operations, including in the 2.5 GHz, 3.45 GHz, 3.5 GHz, 3.7 GHz, 5.9 GHz, and 6 GHz bands. • Explore ways to increase the availability of broadband services in rural and Tribal communities and spectrum access by small carriers. • Ensure that state, local, and Tribal governments, and consumer and industry groups, are aware of and able to participate in the Broadband Data Collection program. • Carry out cross border coordination activities to eliminate any broadband coverage gap due to cross border interference and ensure that the spectrum is used in an efficient manner along the United States’ border areas, consistent with the Unites States’ bilateral and multilateral obligations. • Continue to work in partnership with state, local, and Tribal governments to implement and administer the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), Connect America Fund Phase II (CAF II), Rate of Return carrier reform and all other active high-cost initiatives to further our efforts to ensure that broadband networks are deployed in American’s rural, insular, and high- cost areas, and to people of color and others who have been historically underserved, persons who live in rural areas, persons with disabilities, and persons otherwise affected by persistent poverty, discrimination, or inequality. • Implement Section 60506 of the IIJA by developing model policies and best practices that can be adopted by state, local, and Tribal governments to ensure that broadband internet access service providers do not engage in digital discrimination. Strategic Objective 1.2: Provide opportunities for innovation in broadband services and technologies by modernizing Universal Service Fund (USF) programs to better facilitate affordable broadband deployment and meaningful access to essential services for all Americans. Performance Goals and Targets: 1.2.1 Efficiently support broadband deployment where it is most needed by implementing USF mechanisms that are grounded in sound policy. • Continue to administer RDOF and CAF II auction awards and recipients’ compliance with program requirements. 72 • Ensure increased accountability by continuing to implement and administer the Rural Broadband Accountability Plan through increased audits, verifications, and transparency for USF High Cost programs, including the RDOF. • Make significant progress towards establishing policies to support the preservation and expansion of mobile wireless voice and broadband services. • Continue to implement the Bringing Puerto Rico Together and Connect U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) Fund programs. • Make significant progress to reform and more accurately target USF support for mobile broadband in unserved areas. 1.2.2 Continue reform and modernization of universal service programs to reflect technological developments and changes in the market. • Continue to evaluate service requirements of high-cost support recipients to ensure funding for reasonable comparable services in rural, insular, and high-cost areas. • Foster certainty among providers that receive high-cost support by administering a process to update deployment obligations to reflect real-world conditions. • Make progress to monitor the reform of high cost support to unserved areas in Alaska. • Implement measures to promote greater program efficiencies, certainty, and predictability for rate-of-return carriers. • Support the Commission’s broadband deployment efforts by disseminating information about the auctions process through workshops to small businesses, including those owned by people of color, women, veterans, LGBTQ+, and persons with disabilities. Strategic Objective 1.3: Advance access to communications that are essential for Americans to work remotely, learn remotely, receive healthcare remotely, and engage in commerce and precision agriculture. Performance Goals and Targets: 1.3.1 Ensure a competitive and vibrant spectrum ecosystem that fosters competition and innovation and that supports home networks, business private networks, public networks, and Wi-Fi enabled hotspots. • Develop and implement flexible spectrum authorization policies that are designed to help avoid excessive concentration of spectrum license holdings in the United States, such as shared uses, including unlicensed, license-lite and license by rule operations which promote competition, innovation, investment, entrepreneurship, and consumer benefits. • Advocate adoption of spectrum authorization and other flexible, technology neutral, and market-oriented spectrum policies internationally. • Ensure effective policies are in place to promote and protect competition and remove barriers to investment. • Provide opportunities for innovative and experimental uses of spectrum. 1.3.2 Foster an environment that will encourage investment in broadband networks and services by existing providers while encouraging participation in broadband markets by new and non-traditional participants. 73 • Coordinate with stakeholders to identify impediments towards broadband investment or deployment. • Continue working on policies to reduce or eliminate rules that may be discouraging investment in newer technologies. Strategic Objective 1.4: Communicate information about FCC programs and policies to help bring affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband to 100% of the country. Performance Goals and Targets: 1.4.1 Continue national consumer awareness, education, and outreach efforts focusing on broadband adoption with specific emphasis on people of color and others who have been historically underserved, persons who live in rural areas, persons with disabilities, and persons otherwise affected by persistent poverty, discrimination, or inequality, and also at-home access for students. • Create a series of new, innovative, and accessible guides, animated videos, and publications, including translation for low English proficiency populations. • Develop an outreach program of events and webinars, and email messaging campaigns to build awareness and knowledge about the benefits of broadband in rural and other underserved communities, and to people of color and others who have been historically underserved, persons who live in rural areas, persons with disabilities, and persons otherwise affected by persistent poverty, discrimination, or inequality. 1.4.2 Continue locally-focused and targeted programs of consumer and governmental outreach activities and events based on FCC’s efforts to extend service through the Universal Service Fund and other initiatives to promote new deployment. • Coordinate the timing of geographically focused micro-outreach campaigns in concert with new carrier deployment. • Develop an outreach program of events, local partnership engagements, email campaigns, and webinars to build awareness and knowledge about the benefits of broadband in areas where new carrier deployment has or soon will occur. Strategic Goal 2: Promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Strategic Objective 2.1: Pursue focused action, policies, and investments to eliminate historical, systemic, and structural barriers that perpetuate disadvantaged or underserved individuals and communities. Performance Goals and Targets: 2.1.1 Perform outreach and conduct programs related to communications issues that will promote education and awareness about historical, systemic, and structural barriers that perpetuate disadvantaged or underserved individuals and communities. • Conduct quarterly dialogue sessions with representatives of national, regional, and local consumer advocacy organizations as well as representatives from state, local, and Tribal 74 governments to socialize new and existing Commission policies and develop future areas for collaboration on digital equity and inclusion. Such sessions can be in the form of webinars that focus on separate Commission initiatives and policies. • Host a workshop in conjunction with the Communications Equity and Diversity Council, or its successor, to disseminate information about the digital divide and related issues, with a focus on small businesses, including those owned by people of color, women, veterans, LGBTQ+, and persons with disabilities. • Create interactive programs in conjunction with the Communications Equity and Diversity Council, or its successor, to educate underserved communities about the benefits of broadband. • Leverage language translation capacity to target consumer education materials, campaigns, and alerts for multi-lingual audiences and persons with disabilities. • Continue to enforce the Commission’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) rules applicable to broadcasters, multi-channel video programming distributors, and satellite digital audio radio services providers, including by conducting audits of compliance with EEO rules. • Promote global education and awareness about barriers to broadband accessibility and advocate internationally the U.S. positions that would promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, in various international meetings and conferences, including through the FCC’s International Visitors Program and other U.S. training opportunities with global counterparts where the FCC participates. 2.1.2 Identify historical, systemic, and structural barriers experienced by disadvantaged, marginalized, or underserved individuals and communities, and take measures to ensure their equitable and inclusive access to digital technologies, media, communications services, and next generation networks. • Consistent with the IIJA, adopt rules to facilitate equal access to broadband internet access service, including measures that prevent digital discrimination of access based on income level, race, ethnicity, color, religion, or national origin and through identifying necessary steps for the Commission to take to eliminate digital discrimination of access to broadband internet access service. • Work in partnership with state, local, and Tribal governments, consumer and industry groups and the Communications Equity and Diversity Council, or its successor, and the Disability Advisory Committee to identify historical, systemic and cultural barriers experienced by disadvantaged, marginalized or underserviced individuals and communities. • Work in partnership with state, local, and Tribal governments, consumer and industry groups, and the Communications Equity and Diversity Council, or its successor, to explore strategies to accelerate the entry of small businesses, including those owned by women and minorities, into the media, digital news and information, and audio and video programming industries, including as owners, suppliers and employees. • Consistent with the IIJA, develop model policies and best practices that can be adopted by state, local, and Tribal governments to ensure that broadband internet access service providers do not engage in digital discrimination. • Consistent with the IIJA work in partnership with the Attorney General to ensure that Federal policies promote equal access to robust broadband internet access service by prohibiting deployment discrimination. 75 Strategic Objective 2.2: Seek to gain a deeper understanding of how the agency’s rules, policies, and programs may promote or inhibit advances in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Performance Goals and Targets: 2.2.1 Conduct outreach to the Commission’s counterparts throughout various levels of government as well as other stakeholders to better understand how the Commission can promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility through its rules, policies, and programs. • Coordinate and work with state, local, and Tribal governments to leverage the knowledge and interests of the governments closest to consumers and their communities. • Discuss best practices for promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in policies and programs with international counterparts through, for example, the FCC’s International Visitors Program and the United States Telecommunications Training Institute, and in the International Telecommunications Union. • Establish, maintain, and leverage effective strategic partnerships with national, local, and grassroots entities to build awareness on Commission input opportunities for stakeholders prior to and during policymaking processes. • Evaluate opportunities to advance consideration of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in policymaking functions. • Work with federal partners to ensure numbering policies promote accessibility for persons with disabilities. 2.2.2 Ensure that the FCC cultivates an inclusive culture that encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness. • Continue agency-wide efforts to be a model EEO employer ensuring equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, parental status, political affiliation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by law, such as retaliation, reprisal, and equal pay. • Continue implementation of the FCC’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategic Plan to advance DEIA in the FCC's workforce and remove any potential barriers to DEIA in the FCC's workforce. • Process informal and formal EEO complaints in a timely manner and consistent with the requirements of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) Management Directive 110. • Prepare and timely submit all annual EEO reports to the EEOC and other regulatory bodies as required. • Ensure that all employees timely complete training regarding EEO matters. • Provide training and special emphasis programming to promote an inclusive culture that encourages and facilitates collaboration, flexibility, and equity. • Continue agency program of providing reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. • Process 95% of requests for reasonable accommodation from employees and job applicants within 20 days of receipt. 76 • Continue agency-wide anti-harassment efforts, including reports and training programs on a recurring basis. • Continue the agency’s alternative dispute resolution (ADR) program promoting the use of conflict prevention and ADR techniques and training opportunities for supervisors, managers, and employees regarding the benefits and leveraging of ADR techniques and strategies. • Respond to all requests for mediation and/or conflict resolution assistance pursuant to the FCC’s ADR Handbook. • Provide ADR training for employees and supervisor and managers on a recurring basis. Strategic Goal 3: Empower Consumers Strategic Objective 3.1: Remove impediments to consumer participation in the digital economy and tackle new challenges to consumer rights and opportunities stemming from the digital transitions. Performance Goals and Targets: 3.1.1 Pursue policies and effective enforcement to protect consumers from unwanted and intrusive communications, phone-based scams, telephone privacy issues, and other trends affecting consumers. • Ensure continued voice service provider implementation of SHAKEN/STIR Caller ID authentication framework and/or robocall mitigation programs to reduce high-impact fraudulent robocalls. • Work on identifying a Caller ID authentication framework or other robocall mitigation solutions in connection with the non-IP portion of the network to reduce high-impact fraudulent robocalls. • Facilitate the development of solutions that identify the makers of robocalls, mechanisms for caller ID validation, and tools to reduce high-impact fraudulent robocalls. • Review filings in and ensure effective use of the Robocall Mitigation Database. • Develop and enforce policy measures to combat unlawful robocalling while also protecting consumer privacy and the ability to make lawful calls. • Improve safeguards around the process to allocate telephone numbers to providers of Voice over Internet Protocol service. • Continue to release unwanted call complaint data to the public for use in combatting unlawful telemarketing and robocalling. • Provide unwanted call complaint data internally to inform policy and potential enforcement of telemarketing and robocall violations. • Increase, diversify and distribute print and online consumer education materials focusing on emerging and existing scams, by identifying partners and potential partners for distribution of materials in assorted community venues (e.g., libraries, schools). • Work with other Federal agencies, as well as state and local governments, on combatting unlawful robocalls. • Investigate alleged violations of rules designed to protect consumers, including allegations concerning robocalls; take appropriate enforcement action. Promote cooperation with other countries on combatting unlawful robocalls, including through sharing best practices for combatting unlawful robocalls. 77 • Enter into agreements with other countries where productive on the means and mechanisms of combatting unlawful robocalls. • Coordinate with the State Department on diplomatic means and mechanisms to combat unlawful robocalls from other countries into the United States. • Facilitate, through education and awareness activities and resources, the voluntary adoption of best practices for preventing, or mitigating the risk of unlawful robocalls to hospitals and health systems. • Reduce financial incentives to engage in robocalling by working with all carriers requesting assistance with tariff and contract revisions. • Reduce incentives to engage in phantom robocalling to toll-free numbers. • Continue a comprehensive program of consumer education and awareness activities to reach consumers (through outreach events, train-the-trainer sessions, and establishment of strategic partnerships with community-serving entities) to identify and combat unlawful telemarketing and robocalls and to further refine the methods to report illegal telemarketing and robocalls to provide the Commission with a more complete, real-time data set about the prevalence of such calls. Continue to evaluate and promote the Reassigned Numbers Database to further enhance its usefulness in protecting both callers and consumers and consider additional pro- consumer uses for the database. • Consistent with the IIJA, revise the Commission’s public complaint process to accept complaints from consumers or other members of the public that relate to digital discrimination. • Take enforcement action where warranted regarding the marketing of unauthorized or noncompliant equipment. • Investigate and take enforcement action against carriers and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers who fail to take reasonable measure to discover and protect against attempts to gain unauthorized access through their networks and systems to customer proprietary network information (CPNI) or who otherwise fail to follow the CPNI rules. • Assist small businesses with complying and responding to FCC enforcement actions by revising the Commission’s webpage about the role of the Ombudsman and non-retaliation policy and hosting educational workshops. 3.1.2 Ensure the availability of quality, functionally equivalent communications services for persons with disabilities. • Develop Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS) performance goals and service quality metrics. • Decide applications and continue to shift conditional certification for Internet-based Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) providers to permanent status. • Investigate complaints involving violations of the Commission’s TRS rules and take appropriate enforcement action. • Undertake initiatives to expedite the consistent roll-out of real-time text technology, which supplants antiquated TTY technology for individuals with disabilities who are text-reliant. • Pursue a goal of 100 percent of mobile devices being hearing-aid compatible. • Consider proposals to improve access to functionally equivalent communications services for incarcerated individuals with disabilities. 78 • Continue implementation of new hearing aid compatibility rules to ensure consumers can take advantage of the latest technical developments and standards for determining hearing aid and compatibility of wireless handsets. • Work to develop policies in connection with text-to-988. • Consider proposals to improve the versions of emergency alert system (EAS) messages displayed as text on television screens so as to give deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers access to clearer and more complete emergency information. 3.1.3 Work to enhance competition and pursue policies that protect the competitive process to improve consumer choice and access to information. • Provide consumers with up-to-date, user-friendly online, print, and video publications concerning their rights, responsibilities, and service options so that they can make informed decisions. • Monitor trends in consumer complaints and work with interested consumer, industry, and government stakeholders to identify marketplace practices that negatively affect consumer interests and competition. 3.1.4 Implement actions to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access video programming. • Ensure that transitions to new technologies and standards continue to provide consumers with disabilities with access to video programming through closed captioning, audio description, accessible emergency information, and accessible user interfaces and video programming guides and menus. • Extend audio description requirements to enable a greater number of individuals who are blind or visually impaired to be connected, informed, and entertained by television programming. • Undertake appropriate initiatives to close accessibility gaps with regard to closed captioning and user interface settings. • Increase awareness of accessibility requirements by engaging in outreach to industry and consumers. 3.1.5 Implement actions to protect incarcerated individuals and their families, including those who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, or who have a speech disability, to ensure they have access to affordable communications services. • Adopt rules necessary to implement the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act of 2022. • Adopt and implement caps on charges for interstate and international inmate calling services for incarcerated people and on associated ancillary charges. • Pursue rulemaking actions necessary to ensure just and reasonable rates and practices in connection with interstate, intrastate, and international calling services for incarcerated people and that incarcerated people with communication disabilities receive service that is functionally equivalent to that received by those without such disabilities. • Review annual reports from providers of interstate, intrastate, and international inmate calling services and pursue enforcement actions necessary to ensure that those providers fully comply with applicable Commission rules. 79 • Continue to monitor the market for calling services for incarcerated people to ensure that the Commission’s rules keep pace with technological developments and evolving business practices. Strategic Goal 4: Enhance Public Safety and National Security Strategic Objective 4.1: Keep the public safe by promoting and pursuing policies and initiatives to ensure the availability of secure, reliable, interoperable, resilient, and rapidly restorable critical communications infrastructures and services. Performance Goals and Targets: 4.1.1 Adopt public safety spectrum policies that facilitate interoperable communications by first responders. • Analyze existing rules to determine whether the process for establishing interoperability agreements between Federal agencies and state, local, and Tribal public safety agencies on Federal and non-Federal channels can be made more efficient. • Continue to engage in cross-border spectrum agreement discussions with Canada and Mexico. • Encourage the enhancement and use of redundant communications, such as amateur radio, family radio, and general mobile radio services, to support public safety communications during disasters and emergencies. 4.1.2 Implement an integrated regulatory framework that promotes faster emergency response, leverages technological advancements, and promotes the rapid deployment of innovative public safety communications, such as Next Generation 911 (NG911). • Monitor benchmarks regarding direct 911 dialing and notification requirements for Multi- Line Telephone Systems (MLTS). • Monitor dispatchable location requirements for MLTS, fixed telephony, interconnected VoIP, TRS, and mobile text adopted in 2019 pursuant to Section 506 of the RAY BAUM’S Act. • Continue to implement the Congressional mandate to report annually on states and territories 911 fee expenditures to help ensure that 911 fees collected by states and territories are used to fund 911 expenses and facilitate the advancement of NG911. • Evaluate how wireless 911 calls may be routed more rapidly to the proper 911 call center to ensure that 911 callers can be located expeditiously by public safety answering points (PSAPs) and emergency responders. • Evaluate proposals for updating the FCC’s rules to facilitate the transition to Next Generation 911. • Advance 911 location services by continuing to implement the Commission’s 2015 Location Accuracy rules and monitoring whether Commercial Mobile Radio Services providers are meeting their horizontal location accuracy benchmarks to provide x/y location within 50 meters or dispatchable location for 80% of all wireless 911 calls, and vertical location accuracy requirement to provide z-axis location within 3 meters or dispatchable location for wireless 911 calls in FY 2022. 80 • Support PSAPs in updating the Master PSAP registry and providing notice to carriers when a given PSAP is text-to-911 capable. • Maintain public-facing communication mechanisms, such as the Public Safety Support Center and specific FCC email accounts that support PSAPs and emergency responders. • Monitor implementation of rules and procedures adopted pursuant to Section 902 of the Don’t Break Up the T-Band Act of 2020, which directed the Commission to adopt rules that define what uses of 911 fees by states and taxing jurisdictions constitute fee diversion. In addition, evaluate recommendations to Congress by the Ending 911 Fee Diversion Now Strike Force, a federal advisory committee established by the FCC, pursuant to Section 902, to study 911 fee diversion and develop recommendations to end this practice. • Take enforcement action where warranted. 4.1.3 Combat the malicious or illegal use of communications equipment, such as jammers or contraband cellphones in correctional facilities by developing reforms and examining other technological solutions. • Take steps to implement new rules or facilitate other solutions to reduce the use of contraband cellphones in correctional facilities. • Collaborate with Federal and state, local, and Tribal governments, and explore, identify, and employ technological solutions to detect, identify, and locate communications equipment used for malicious intent jeopardizing national security or safety of life and property. 4.1.4 Take measures to facilitate the rapid restoration of critical communications during disasters, emergencies, and significant events. • Identify opportunities for and participate in pre-disaster coordination and planning with Federal partners, state, local, and Tribal governments, communications industry, and utilities providers to identify and prioritize restoration of key communications infrastructure. • Pursue a framework that facilitates infrastructure and service restoration; that encourages the provision of innovative solutions to fill vital public safety communications gaps; and that promotes communications redundancy and resilience during restoration and recovery efforts. • Evaluate and monitor the implementation of the Commission’s new rules requiring roaming, mutual aid, and other planning and restoration methods for all facilities-based mobile wireless providers. • Work quickly and effectively with government counterparts in Mexico and Canada to address interference issues affecting critical communications infrastructure and services along the U.S. border. Strategic Objective 4.2: Promote the public’s access to reliable 911 and emergency alerting and support public safety’s access to first responder communications. Performance Goals and Targets: 4.2.1 Promote the nationwide availability of reliable and effective 911, Enhanced 911 (E911), and NG911 service by developing and implementing policies that will ensure the reliability, resiliency, and security of communications networks, particularly for 911 and NG911 networks. 81 • Further delineate, through Commission rules or policies, the technical responsibilities of participants in the NG911 ecosystem, including: originating service providers, covered 911 service providers, third party providers, Emergency Services IP networks (ESInets) and PSAPs. • Promote compliance with the Commission’s rules by taking action, where appropriate, on complaints and referrals concerning the Commission’s 911, E911 and NG911 rules. • Investigate cases involving violations of the FCC’s rules related to 911, E911 and NG911 service and take appropriate enforcement action on apparent violations. • Promote technical assistance as appropriate to PSAPs and other state, local, and territorial government entities on issues related to 911, E911, and NG911 reliability. • Collaborate with state, local, and Tribal governments in reviewing and exploring major 911 reliability issues in their jurisdictions. 4.2.2 Collect and analyze outage information for communications networks and 911/NG911 networks by working with stakeholders to understand and address problems. • Engage Field Offices as appropriate on complaints raising public safety interference issues within one calendar day of filing through the FCC’s Radio Frequency Service Interference Complaint Portal. • Review service provider compliance with the Commission’s outage reporting obligations and reports on individual outages and refer compliance issues for enforcement action where appropriate to ensure that consumers have continued access to communications services during an emergency. • Take enforcement action where warranted for violations of outage reporting obligations. 4.2.3 Analyze and report on major outages to assess practices in order to prevent future outages. • Publish incident reports after significant outages to get timely information to the public outages and recovery efforts. • Based on an analysis of aggregated outage data, publicly share “lessons learned” regarding voluntary best practices and other measures providers can take to help prevent similar outages in the future. 4.2.4 Fulfill the FCC’s responsibilities under the National Preparedness System, including support to Emergency Support Function #2 (ESF#2) – Communications. Provide situational awareness of the status of communications services and infrastructure; coordinate with industry, the utilities sector, and other Federal, state, local, and Tribal governments to facilitate communications protection, resilience, response, and restoration during times of crisis. • Respond to and support, when applicable, requests for information and assistance from Federal, state, local, and Tribal public safety officials, law enforcement, and national security partners within one day during significant disasters and incidents. • Activate the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) as necessary to collect information from service providers on the status of communications and use that information to provide daily situational awareness reports to ESF #2 agencies. • Take pro-active steps to expedite the processing of Special Temporary Authorizations during disasters and major incidents. 82 • Implement, assess, and promote wireless resiliency, including cooperation among wireless service providers and other stakeholders (including backhaul providers, power companies and local public safety representatives) in advance of and during disasters. • Share network outage and infrastructure status information with Federal and state partners to improve situational awareness. • Coordinate with other regulators, sector-specific agencies, and ESF#14 (Cross-Sector business and Infrastructure) to identify ways to harmonize communications infrastructure restoration practices across sectors including the utilities sector. • Maintain up-to-date contacts and relationships with Tribal Nations, state, local, and Tribal governments, disability groups, and consumer organizations to facilitate the dissemination of critical updates and information in the event of an emergency or disaster. 4.2.5 Strengthen access to emergency services and emergency public information sources during emergencies by supporting improved preparedness, reliability of communications networks, and disaster management practices. • Work in partnership with other Federal agencies, as well as state, local, and Tribal governments to: share information on communications network status; identify and publish best practices and lessons learned for disaster preparedness and network reliability and resiliency through Public Notices and through the FCC’s website; and coordinate efforts to respond to network degradation or failure during disasters emergencies, or significant events to promote security and the safety of life and property. • Participate in interagency continuity of operations (COOP) and continuity of government (COG) planning and exercises. • Work in partnership with PSAPs and other emergency call centers to encourage the use of text-to-911, including real-time text, for use by people with disabilities. • During incidents in which ESF#2 and DIRS are activated, use information about the status of communications submitted by service providers in DIRS to provide daily public reports with certain aggregated data. • Evaluate proposals to further streamline the Commission’s rules that address communications prioritization and update as necessary to reflect evolving technology and communications usage by national security and incident response officials. • Work in partnership with other Federal agencies and the North American Numbering Plan Administrator to oversee implementation of 988 as the 3-digit code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. • Work in partnership with other Federal agencies and the North American Numbering Plan Administrator to allow text messaging to the 988 code as well as voice calls. • Continue to evaluate and facilitate measures to improve public safety messaging for non- English proficient consumers and those in underserved communities. 4.2.6 Work to ensure the continued availability of timely emergency alerts. Facilitate the effectiveness and reliability of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), including through encouraging the development of new alerting capabilities that leverage emerging technologies. • Support any Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) initiated tests of the EAS and WEA to ensure continued effectiveness of these alert and warning systems. 83 • Advance the reliability, speed and accuracy of WEA through data-driven assessment of localized performance metrics. • Further explore, through the rulemaking process and other available means, improvements to WEA based on advancements in technology, market developments, and evolving public safety stakeholders’ needs. • Work with FEMA, other federal, state, and local agencies, and other stakeholders to improve the quality and reliability of networks used to distribute EAS messages. • Ensure that EAS messages are clear enough to enable the public to understand them and respond with appropriate protective actions during emergency situations. • Take measures to ensure the Alert Reporting System is available and effective in reducing the paperwork burden on State Emergency Communications Committees, the voluntary entities that administer the EAS at the state level, and in allowing the Commission and other authorized stakeholders to have accurate knowledge of how EAS alerts are propagated at the state, local, and national levels. • Continue to take enforcement action against pirate radio stations, which do not carry EAS alerts and may disrupt the distribution of EAS alerts. • Continue to take enforcement action against entities that abuse or misuse EAS/WEA systems, including unauthorized uses of the EAS/WEA alert tones. Strategic Objective 4.3: Leverage Commission expertise, situational awareness, and authorities to mitigate national and homeland security risks in coordination with interagency partners. Performance Goals and Targets: 4.3.1 Support national security initiatives, and law enforcement and first responder operational activities during steady state, major disasters, emergencies, and significant events. • Provide consultative support to the Defense Commissioner pursuant to section 0.181 of the Commission’s rules. • Coordinate with interagency partners to identify and assess existing and evolving risks to the communications sector and develop and implement modern policy and operational solutions to manage those risks. • Implement an enduring communications sector risk assessment and risk information sharing capability and provide periodic and, as required, ad hoc briefings to Commission leadership to inform risk-based policies. • Coordinate with interagency partners to ensure an accurate and up-to-date Covered List of covered communications equipment or services that particular enumerated entities (certain federal agencies and Congress, as specified in the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act) have determined pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons. • Conduct determinations, as warranted, for designating entities as national security threats to the integrity of communications networks or the communications supply chain for purposes of ensuring the prohibition on universal service funds from being used to obtain equipment or services produced or provided by companies that pose a threat to national security. • Coordinate within the Commission and with inter-agency partners to ensure that Commission policy positions are represented in all dialogue pertaining to national security and public safety issues impacting or impacted by communications. 84 • Provide Federal, state, local, and Tribal governments with critical information pertaining to the potential misuse of spectrum, communications infrastructure, and licensee status. • Actively participate with Interagency partners and state, local, and Tribal governments in planning for high-profile events that could be at risk of terrorist attacks, e.g., National Special Security Events (NSSE) and Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR). • Continue to modernize the FCC’s capabilities to conduct over-the-air evaluations of radiofrequency spectrum in coordination with public safety and national security partners. • In support of interagency partners and federal law enforcement, develop and maintain the necessary programs to facilitate identification of communications that denote potential criminal or terrorist activity. • Leverage existing, and new sources of infrastructure data to identify and analyze risks to interdependent and interconnected communications, to better enable emergency management officials at the Federal and state, local, and Tribal governments to harden critical public safety communications infrastructure during blue skies, perform disaster response operations, and prioritize restoration of critical communications services. • Work with key Federal partners to improve the provision and resilience of National Security and Emergency Preparedness communications. • Modernize the process for telecommunications carriers to submit Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA) System Security and Integrity Plans. • Continue to coordinate with federal agencies to educate small businesses about potential cybersecurity threats and measures they should take to protect against vulnerabilities in their network. • With close coordination with other U.S. government agencies and international partners, promote global awareness about communication network security issues to ensure adoption of policies, standards, guidelines, and procurement strategies that reinforce vendor diversity and foster market competition. • In conjunction with relevant U.S. government agencies, examine existing grants of section 214 authority to ensure such companies do not pose a security threat to the United States. 4.3.2 Identify and implement methods to mitigate risks to communications reliability, resilience, and security. • Coordinate and collaborate with appropriate government entities, the private sector to identify and develop measures to mitigate security risks to U.S. communications. • Pursuant to the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, maintain and update the Covered List of Covered Equipment and Services that pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of the American people. • Prohibit the use of any federal subsidy administered by the FCC that provides funds to be used for the capital expenditures necessary for the provision of advanced communications service, including the USF, to purchase, obtain, maintain, improve, modify, or otherwise support any covered equipment or services on the FCC’s Covered List. • Take enforcement action in appropriate cases for violations of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act, and any related Commission rules, and the Commission’s rules on prohibiting use of universal service funds to obtain equipment or services from companies that pose a threat to national security. • Continue to implement the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program to reimburse eligible providers of advanced communications services for reasonable 85 expenses incurred in removing, replacing, and disposing of communications equipment or services produced or provided by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation that was obtained on or before June 30, 2020 from their networks. • Adopt rules in the Commission’s equipment authorization program to prohibit authorization of covered equipment identified on the Covered List, in accordance with the Secure Equipment Act of 2021. • Identify and implement methods that foster vendor diversity and the development and deployment of emerging communications technologies, such as open radio access network. • Continue to examine communications priority services rules and programs, including the Telecommunications Service Priority and Priority Access Service rules. • In coordination with other Federal agencies, advocate for mitigating risks and securing the communications supply chain with other countries. • Promote space innovation and U.S. leadership in the emerging space economy to advance our nation’s economic, scientific, technological, and national security interests. • Facilitate progress and reduce barriers for missions involving in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) by providing clarifications, updates or modifications of Commission licensing processes and addressing possible spectrum needs. • Review licenses for all satellite services for adherence to best practices and established guidelines for orbital debris mitigation and safe space operations. • In coordination with other Federal agencies as needed, ensure that FCC regulations and licensing practices reflect and utilize the latest advancements in orbital debris mitigation remediation and removal practices and assessment methods. 4.3.3 Employ FCC authorities in coordination with interagency partners to assess and mitigate national security, law enforcement, foreign policy, or trade policy risks related to applicants’ foreign ownership, as part of the Commission’s overall public interest analysis of applications. • Coordinate with the relevant Executive Branch agencies, seeking their review and recommendations on applications and petitions with foreign ownership for any national security, law enforcement, foreign policy, or trade policy concerns. • Based on the Commission’s regulatory authority, the FCC will issue the Standard Questions applicants will be required to submit to the Executive Branch agencies prior to or at the same that that they file applications or petitions with the Commission. • As appropriate, use the Commission’s regulatory authorities to condition the grant of applications on the applicants’ compliance with the terms of relevant national security and law enforcement mitigation agreements. • As appropriate, use the Commission’s regulatory authorities to assess and determine whether revocation or termination of an authorization or license is appropriate in light of any national security or law enforcement concerns. • As appropriate, continue to facilitate a more streamlined and transparent review process for coordinating applications and petitions with the Executive Branch agencies. • As appropriate, take enforcement action against unauthorized assignments and transfers of control of Commission authorizations involving foreign ownership and control that impact national security, law enforcement, foreign policy, or trade policy concerns. • Based on the Commission’s regulatory authority, the FCC will issue the Standard Questions applicants will be required to submit to the Executive Branch agencies prior to or at the same that that they file applications or petitions with the Commission. 86 Strategic Goal 5: Advance America’s Global Competitiveness Strategic Objective 5.1: Promote investment and advance the development and deployment of new communications technologies, such as 5G, that will allow the nation to remain a global leader in an increasingly competitive, international marketplace. Performance Goals and Targets: 5.1.1 Evaluate and report on the competitive environment for communications services. • Consistent with the RAY BAUM’S Act, evaluate and prepare a unified report on the state of the communications marketplaces based on various data collected by the Commission, including the Broadband Data Collection, which is being implemented pursuant to the Broadband DATA Act. 5.1.2 Ensure effective policies are in place to promote and protect competition and remove barriers to investment. • Develop and promulgate Commission policies designed to promote competitive choices for wireless, satellite, and wireline voice and data service providers, for domestic and international services and for multichannel video programming. • Promote compliance with rules designed to maximize competitive choices by taking enforcement action in appropriate cases. • Review, process, and resolve applications for transfer of control and assignment of licenses in a timely manner. • Encourage broadcaster innovation in delivering new services. • Evaluate policies designed to help avoid excessive concentration of spectrum license holdings in the United States in order to promote competition, lower prices, and a vibrant telecommunications system. 5.1.3 Pursue spectrum policies to achieve the effective and efficient use of spectrum. • Work to make available additional mid-band and other spectrum to facilitate deployment of next-generation services. • Design and hold spectrum auctions as directed through statutory mandate, including to make more spectrum available for 5G and other next-generation services. • Administer the transition of secondary, non-federal radiolocation operations out of 100 megahertz of recently auctioned spectrum in the 3.45-3.55 GHz band. • Administer the transition of 280 megahertz of spectrum in the C-Band (3.7-4.2 GHz) for terrestrial 5G service while avoiding disruption of existing satellite services that use the C- Band. • Identify additional frequency bands for unlicensed operations to promote innovative uses of unlicensed technologies. • Coordinate effectively with Federal agencies regarding identifying and acting upon opportunities to expand access to spectrum for wireless broadband. 87 • Ensure that the FCC’s decision-making process includes, where appropriate and practicable, consultation with Tribal Nations regarding potential impact and concomitant new and enhanced opportunities and outcomes of spectrum allocation and license assignment policies. • Review internal proposals to improve the efficiency of spectrum use. • Promote compliance with rules designed to maximize the effective and efficient use of spectrum by taking enforcement action in appropriate cases. • Process all Spectrum Pipeline Plans submitted by Federal agencies for potential relocation of their radio operations to other bands within 120 days to encourage repurposing of Federal spectrum to commercial use. • Meet the statutory requirements of the MOBILE NOW Act by evaluating and reporting on spectrum use on a timely basis and repurposing and reallocating spectrum to support next generation mobile broadband. • Support the Commission’s spectrum use efforts by disseminating information about the assignment and use of spectrum to small businesses, including those owned by people of color, women, veterans, LGBTQ+, and persons with disabilities. Develop innovative spectrum sharing opportunities and mechanisms that may permit multiple categories of users to co-exist in close proximity, enabling more intensive use of the spectrum. • Authorize the use of more spectrally efficient technologies. • Coordinate effectively with Canada and Mexico to ensure efficient, interference free use of spectrum along border areas. • Engage in domestic and international outreach activities to encourage efficient and effective spectrum use consistent with U.S. adopted policies. • Consider various ways to promote more efficient use of spectrum through improved receiver interference immunity performance, including possible policy guidance. 5.1.4 Allow new services and technologies to come to market by expediting processes. • Initiate action on 50% of incoming waiver requests within 6 months, and 90% within one year. • Resolve at least 8,000 applications filed by television and radio licensees during FY 2024. • Resolve 90% of equipment authorization inquiries in less than 30 days to ensure timely authorization of innovative and compliant products in the marketplace. • Conduct semi-annual meetings with Telecommunication Certification Bodies to review test procedures and provide training on new technologies. • Act on 90% of applications for routine experimental licenses within 90 days of receipt. • Take enforcement action in appropriate cases against violations of spectrum-related rules, such as interference, unauthorized use of frequencies, and marketing of unauthorized equipment. • Investigate and prioritize actions on allegations of violations of the Commission’s spectrum licensing and equipment authorization rules and take appropriate enforcement action. • Process at least 95% of routine spectrum license applications within 90 days of receipt. 5.1.5 Continue post-incentive auction (IA) repacking, displacement, and reimbursement efforts for broadcasters. • Continue post-IA broadcast transition for the full power and Class A stations completing construction of repacked facilities, FM broadcast stations implicated by the transition of full 88 power and Class A stations, and the low power (LPTV) and TV translator stations provided displacement relief as a result of the repack in order to make spectrum available for deployment of mobile broadband services by carriers who purchased it in the IA. • Continue administering reimbursements from the obligated portion of the $2.75 billion TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund for eligible costs incurred by full power, Class A, LPTV, TV translator and FM stations, and multichannel video programming distributors in a manner that assures prompt payment, equity, and fairness among eligible stations, and minimizes the possibility of waste, fraud, and abuse. • Investigate and initiate action where appropriate on potential violations of the post-IA reimbursement rules. Strategic Objective 5.2: Help the U.S. government promote responsible global development and deployment abroad. Performance Goals and Targets: 5.2.1 Promote effective oversight and foster investment in 5G and later generation networks by considering actions that address problems in the marketplace. Make fact-based decisions, relying on economic analysis, ongoing fact-gathering initiatives and data analysis. • Take action informed by data and economic analysis to address gaps in the advanced wireless marketplace, as appropriate. • Coordinate with and advise international partners in the pursuit of fostering the development of communications services and solutions that promote interconnectivity, economic opportunity, and societal benefits. 5.2.2 Work to promote a high-quality, secure, and globally interconnected communications infrastructure through international telecommunications and satellite programs and policies. • Work with the Commission’s counterparts in other countries and advise on best practices in communications policy. • In coordination with other Federal agencies, develop and advance spectrum proposals for the next World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) and take steps necessary to implement the results of the WRC-19. • In coordination with other Federal agencies, seek to promote policies and regulations that are consistent with FCC regulatory rules and policies at the International Telecommunication Union. • In coordination with other Federal agencies, encourage other countries to use only trusted vendors or architectures when developing 5G and later generation networks. • Actively monitor compliance and enforce Commission rules regarding orbital debris standards and practices, and update rules as needed to reflect the latest advancements in remediation and removal practices and assessment methods. • Approve regional recommendations in the International Telecommunication Union promoting harmonized frequency arrangements for mobile broadband systems providing economies of scale and facilitating deployment and cross-border coordination. • Advance studies in the International Telecommunication Union that support U.S. industry priorities and foster an international regulatory environment for the development of new 89 technologies and radiocommunication services in preparation for the next World Radiocommunication Conference. • Attend and advance studies in international and standards development organizations and promote the adoption of international standards consistent with U.S. and FCC goals and policies. • Enhance effective collaboration with other Federal agencies to foster the innovative use of spectrum through the introduction of new technologies and services. • In coordination with other Federal agencies, promote the development and deployment of open radio access network technology in other countries. • In coordination with the State Department, advocate U.S. positions in cross border and international spectrum harmonization and other activities to ensure that the Unites States’ bilateral and multilateral obligations are consistent with the domestic policies. • In coordination with other Federal agencies promote the development of internal regulatory frameworks for space activities that foster private sector deployment while ensuring effective regulatory supervision. • Coordinate with the State Department to achieve outcomes in International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (ITSO) negotiations that are consistent with U.S. and FCC policies fostering private sector deployment while ensuring that Intelsat obligations to ITSO are met. Strategic Goal 6: Foster Operational Excellence Strategic Objective 6.1: Be a model for excellence in government by effectively managing the FCC’s resources, maintain a commitment to transparent and responsive processes that encourage public involvement and serves the public good. Performance Goals and Target 6.1.1 Continue to provide information about the status of matters pending before the FCC by developing and posting information online and communicating with stakeholders. • Conduct meetings and outreach with stakeholders, including state, local, and Tribal governments and their representative organizations, including underserved communities that have been systematically denied a full opportunity to participate in aspects of economic, social, and civic life, as well as the state Members of Federal-State Joint Boards, to ensure that the Commission understands their positions. • Respond to 95% of informal consumer complaints within one business day of receipt. • Develop and execute strategies for continued improvement and enhancement of the FCC’s informal complaint process regarding user experience and sharing of reliable complaint data. • Continue to promote the Public Safety Support Center as a resource for public safety stakeholders to submit complaints and contact complainants, or otherwise initiate action to resolve complaints impacting emergency services within one day of receipt of the complaint. • Improve access to information related to wireless licenses and authorizations, including continuation of efforts to modernize and streamline the FCC’s Universal Licensing System (ULS) and completing the transition to electronic licensing in ULS and the Antenna Structure Registration system. • Collect and publish data on federally funded broadband investments. 90 • Continue to ensure that the FCC domestic transfer of control webpage is accurate and up-to- date, so as to inform all stakeholders of the status of pending transactions from the time of filing until the date of Commission action. • Continue to timely update the FCC’s submarine cable webpage to inform the public, other Federal, state, and local government agencies, and all stakeholders of the total number of submarine cable licenses granted by the FCC to date and the most recent pending and granted submarine cable licenses. • Continue to timely update the FCC’s small entity compliance guide webpage to inform small businesses about new FCC rules and regulations to facilitate compliance. • Review 100% of incumbent local exchange carriers (LEC) tariffs filed on 15 days’ notice in the Electronic Tariff Filing System in FY 2024. • Review competitive LEC tariffs in a timely manner after they are filed in the Electronic Tariff Filing System and act on any rates, terms, or conditions that violate the Commission’s rules or are otherwise unjust and unreasonable. • Ensure that all new data collections are updated in the FCC data inventory and in the OMB data inventory in accordance with OMB guidelines to the greatest extent practicable. • In coordination with other federal agencies, prepare the semi-annual publication of the Unified Agenda, which highlights federal agencies’ priorities, promotes transparency, planning and coordination, and encourages public participation in the regulatory process. 6.1.2 Ensure the Commission’s ability to meet its Mission Essential Functions (MEF) and other critical activities during emergencies and disasters affecting FCC facilities and/or staff. • Provide adequately trained FCC staff to meet public safety and national security requirements. • Participate in national-level interagency exercises to validate COG, COOP, and disaster response capabilities. • Provide analytical support for continuity of operations and disaster response actions when requested. • Provide remote call center functionality as a critical pathway for public input during emergencies and as a tool for situational awareness about communications network functionality. • Provide adequately trained staff to record and report on FCC staff availability and MEF performance during continuity of operations and disaster response actions. • Improve and maintain ability for Commission leadership to communicate via multiple paths (e.g., cellular, satellite, HF) during incidents that may impact segments of the communications grid. • Work with the interagency national security community to examine steps to improve the resiliency of national security communications requirements of all agencies. 6.1.3 For each program objective, the Office of the General Counsel will work to ensure that the Commission adheres to all legal requirements in its operations by providing timely and accurate legal advice and representation regarding proposed and existing policies and rules within the FCC’s purview. • Provide timely and accurate legal advice to Bureaus, Offices, and the Commission with respect to pending proceedings. • Promptly respond to all requests for legal advice relating to the Commission’s operations. 91 • Provide FCC staff with advice relating to government ethics and ensure that all ethics inquiries are addressed in a timely manner. • Vigorously defend FCC rules, policies, and operations against legal challenge. 6.1.4 For each program objective, the Office of Economics and Analytics will support the Commission by providing expertise, guidance, and assistance to the Bureaus and other Offices in applying the principles of economic and data analysis. • Implement regulatory impact analysis requirements to ensure that FCC regulations solve real problems at a reasonable cost. • Advise the Office of the Chair of emerging economic trends and issues relevant to the FCC’s mission. • Continue an active economic research program to bring state-of-the-art economic analysis to bear on matters relevant to the Commission. • Ensure consistent and timely public interest analysis of applications for transfer of control and assignment of licenses. • Ensure that analyses concerning mergers and transactions cite relevant facts, sources of information, and convey the basis for findings. • Provide expertise, guidance, and assistance to the Bureaus and Offices upon request on matters involving economic and data analysis, and the collection and management of data. Strategic Objective 6.2: Effectively manage and modernize, as appropriate, the FCC’s information technology (IT), financial, record keeping, facilities, and human capital resources to best achieve the FCC’s mission. Performance Goals and Targets: 6.2.1 Make information readily available to agency management for decision-making by improving Commission systems and processes. • Maintain dashboards and information management systems, including systems to monitor field investigations, commercial radio and public safety complaints, consumer protection complaints, and records retention while maintaining confidentiality necessary to protect the integrity of ongoing Commission investigations and to comply with relevant laws (e.g., Privacy Act). • Participate in ongoing dialogue with FCC Bureaus and Offices to provide information on enforcement-related issues in an efficient and timely manner. • Conduct quarterly meetings of the Data Governance Board, which includes leadership from the Office of the Chair, the Office of the Managing Director, the Office of Economics and Analytics, and program offices, to ensure that information obtained by implementing the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act is readily available to support decision- making by the Commission. • Promote and comply with the Foundations of Evidence-Based Policy Act through a newly designed/modernized ULS database optimized to reduce redundancy, improve access, and provide statistical evidence to support policymaking. 92 6.2.2 Carry out the agency’s mission by upgrading and enhancing technology, tools and processes used by Commission staff. • The FCC will continue to modernize our legacy information technology systems and is currently working on numerous system modernization projects throughout the agency. Through these efforts, the FCC will save time by eliminating unnecessary processes and reducing manual labor. Modernization of the FCC’s systems also helps the Commission to become more agile thereby allowing the organization to adapt quickly to new requirements and demands as they arise. Among these projects are the following critical systems: o Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS), which is one of the most heavily used systems in the FCC and provides internet access to comments and comment indexing information filed in FCC rulemakings and docketed proceedings. Using ECFS, the public can view comments online or submit comments electronically using one of a variety of supported document formats. o International Bureau Filing System (IBFS) which is used by the Commission as the official licensing system for: Earth Stations, Space Stations, International Section 214, International Public Fixed, and International HF Broadcasting services. o Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS), which is a web-based system through which the Commission collects operational status and restoration information from communications providers during major disasters and subsequent recovery efforts. DIRS provides communications providers with a single, coordinated, consistent process to report their communications infrastructure status information during disasters. • Enhance access to real-time data for decision-making, reduce operating and maintenance costs and meet increased demand loads of public filings by continuing to migrate outdated technology-based systems and applications to cloud-based environments. • Explore technological tools to enhance accessibility, productivity, and accountability in the Federal workforce and commence migration to next-generation desk top services and end- user computing environment. • Employ project management principles and timeline tools for the planning and preparation, as well as the conducting of Commission auctions, to improve the Commission’s ability to assure the quality, security, and timeliness of its auctions. • Implement enhanced application, system, database, and infrastructure monitoring capabilities and develop an improved method of informing stakeholders of Commission-wide system issues and outages. • Participate in agency-wide working groups to identify possible upgrades or enhancements to technology and tools to facilitate staff’s ability to carry out the agency’s mission. • Update the FCC’s IT Strategic Plan. • Continuously update the FCC’s bidding systems to enable the auction of licenses for new services identified by statute that will facilitate the deployment of new technologies to the public, broadcast construction permits, and universal service support that will help ensure affordable access to broadband across the country. • Review existing staffing and communications processes, and explore more efficient, effective ways to communicate with stakeholders, provide enhanced transparency, facilitate meetings, and receive and respond to requests for status updates (such as electronic licensing and online dashboards reflecting status of proceedings and requests). • Ensure full compliance with the provisions of section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, requiring the Commission to provide accessible information and communication technology to its 93 employees with disabilities and work collaboratively and cooperatively with the Office of Managing Director regarding initiatives aimed to address accessibility needs of employees with disabilities. • Continue to implement the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act by making our data publicly available and open by default, and maintaining an inventory of data assets, to the maximum extent practicable. 6.2.3 Maintain a high level of cybersecurity readiness and presence by providing FCC staff with a secure digital infrastructure. • Ensure that all FCC staff and contractors timely complete cybersecurity training. • Continue making upgrades to the security of the FCC’s IT systems. • Integrate enhanced credential validation and session management tools in the design and construction of the modernized ULS. 6.2.4 Ensure that all financial operations are helping control or contain costs, providing high quality customer service, and improving the effectiveness and efficiency of Commission operations by conducting a program of continuous review and evaluation. • Coordinate on budget planning and execution to help ensure that auction, spectrum, and licensing activities are conducted effectively and efficiently. 6.2.5 Expand opportunities for professional staff to improve their skills and knowledge, with the goal of ensuring that the highest quality analysis is applied to Commission policymaking. • Research and prepare economic working papers for publication in the Office of Economics and Analytics working paper series. • Continue to invite outside experts, especially those focused on relevant areas, to present their research before Commission economists and other experts. 6.2.6 Ensure that all members of the Commission’s workforce and candidates for employment have equal access to opportunities for employment, career growth, training, and development by developing workforce recruitment initiatives that foster a workforce whose diversity reflects the diverse makeup of the Nation. • Continue the collaborative and cooperative work of the Office of Workplace Diversity and the Associate Managing Director-Human Resource Management regarding recruitment strategies in furtherance of a diverse applicant pool for all agency employment opportunities. 6.2.7 Ensure that the FCC’s recruitment, development, and retention strategies for professionals at the FCC further and promote a diverse applicant pool for internship and career opportunities. • Continue the Early Career Staff Diversity Initiative to advance equitable opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate, graduate, and law school students by providing an increased paid internships throughout the FCC under the Pathways Internship Program to law, graduate, or undergraduate students. 94 • Continue and bolster agency-wide efforts to increase the diversity of the applicant pool for the Commission’s internship, Attorney Honors, and Honors Engineering Programs, including but not limited to outreach efforts to minority serving institutions, such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities. • Continue to pursue and enhance strategic partnership and collaboration with internal and external affinity groups to increase awareness about available internship and career opportunities. • Examine the agency’s recruitment, development, and retention strategies for technical professionals such as economists and engineers, and as warranted, develop a proposal for improvement and/or enhancement of the strategies. Strategic Objective 6.3: Ensure that the Universal Service Fund (USF) programs are well managed, efficient, and fiscally responsible and reduce fraud, waste, and abuse. Performance Goals and Targets: 6.3.1 Reduce the potential for fraud, waste, and abuse in the USF programs. • Investigate and prioritize actions on allegations of violations of the USF rules, including contributions, and take appropriate enforcement action. • Continue implementation of policies to simplify and remove waste in the FCC’s USF programs. • Coordinate and share information with USAC on a regular basis to proactively identify and remediate opportunities for fraud, waste, and abuse in all USF programs. • Review and accept for filing within 14 days of a complete application, domestic section 214 transactions between incumbent telephone companies receiving high-cost USF support through different mechanisms to address potential harm to the Commission’s goal of ensuring that limited USF resources are distributed efficiently. • Coordinate with USAC to implement a fraud risk management framework that aligns with Government Accountability Office (GAO) best practices and begin work to tailor framework for each of the universal service programs. • Continue engagement with other federal funding agencies to share information and coordinate efforts to facilitate efficiency and effectiveness in USF funding. • Coordinate with all relevant federal agencies in administering an online mapping tool to provide a locations overview of the overall geographic footprint of each broadband infrastructure deployment project funded by the federal government, as required by the IIJA. • Administer the Urban Rates Survey to collect information on pricing and establish benchmarks for reasonable costs of service funded through the high-cost programs. 6.3.2 Ensure that the USF programs are administered efficiently and effectively by reviewing the administrative costs of the programs. • Review internal proposals to improve the efficiency of the administration of universal service programs. • Review all USAC IT projects commenced in FY 2024 to promote efficiency and effectiveness in USAC’s operations. 95 6.3.3 Take steps to ensure that communications systems funded with USF programs are secure and resilient. • Continue to ensure USF recipients refrain from using USF support to purchase, obtain, maintain, improve, modify, or otherwise support equipment and services from companies the Commission has designated as posing a national security threat to the integrity of communications networks or the communications supply chain, and from using USF support for any equipment and services included on the Commission’s List of Covered Equipment and Services. 96 FISCAL YEAR 2024 REQUIREMENTS BY BUREAUS AND OFFICES 97 This page is intentionally left blank 98 Offices of the Chairwoman and Commissioners FY 2024 Offices of the Chairwoman and FY 2023 FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Commissioners Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 23 25 25 11 - Personnel compensation $3,006,375 $3,772,859 $3,957,672 12 - Personnel benefits $1,029,285 1,794,121 1,882,005 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $4,035,660 $5,566,980 $5,839,677 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $123,315 $283,500 $289,190 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 725,654 836,957 853,758 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 682 4,900 4,917 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $849,651 $1,125,357 $1,147,865 TOTAL $4,885,311 $6,692,337 $6,987,542 The FCC is directed by five Commissioners who are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate for five-year terms, except when filling an unexpired term. The President designates one of the Commissioners to serve either as the Chairperson or Chairwoman. Only three Commissioners may be members of the same political party. None of them can have a financial interest in any Commission-related business. The Chairperson or Chairwoman serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, supervising all FCC activities, delegating responsibilities to Offices and Bureaus, and formally representing the Commission before the Congress and the Administration. 99 Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau FY 2024 Consumer and Governmental Affairs FY 2023 FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Bureau Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 107 119 119 11 - Personnel compensation $14,745,941 $16,902,866 $17,730,852 12 - Personnel benefits 5,108,416 5,557,070 5,829,282 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $19,854,357 $22,459,936 $23,560,134 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $59,463 $686,043 $699,815 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 791,860 794,682 810,634 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 1,303,292 1,487,415 1,517,274 26 - Supplies and materials 0 1,000 1,020 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $2,154,615 $2,969,140 $3,028,743 TOTAL $22,008,972 $25,429,076 $26,588,877 The Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau develops and implements consumer protection policies, including disability access, on behalf of the Commission. Through its outreach and education programs, as well as its Tribal and inter-governmental affairs initiatives, the Bureau enhances the public’s understanding of the Commission’s work and facilitates the Agency’s relationships with other governmental agencies and organizations. The Bureau also serves as the public face of the Commission through the call center and online complaint portal, where consumers can submit inquiries and informal complaints to the Commission regarding communications issues. Consistent with controlling laws and regulations and in accordance with its delegated authority, the Bureau performs the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Initiating and directing the policy development and coordination of matters pertaining to consumers and governmental affairs, consistent with the priorities of the Commission; ▪ Advising the Chairwoman and Commissioners on matters of general consumer and disability policy; ▪ Protecting consumers from illegal robocalls by enabling voice providers to block robocalls and by implementing the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and the TRACED Act to protect consumers when they receive illegal robocalls, while educating consumers about robocall-blocking tools, sharing consumer protection best practices, and collecting and tracking consumer complaints to ensure the agency has up-to-date and reliable information to aid with future enforcement actions; 100 ▪ Communicating with the general public regarding Commission policies, programs, and activities to facilitate public education and participation in the Commission’s decision- making processes; ▪ Handling informal consumer inquiries and complaints consistent with Commission regulations, including facilitating the negotiation and resolution of certain classes of informal complaints; ▪ Collaborating with, advising, and assisting state, local, and Tribal governments, and other governmental agencies and industry groups, on consumer and inter-governmental matters including disability access, emergency preparedness, broadband access and deployment and implementation of new technologies; ▪ Developing, recommending, and administering policies, rules, procedures and programs regarding consumer and disability policy and any other related issues affecting consumer policy; ▪ Consulting with federally recognized Tribal governments on a formal government-to- government basis, and engaging with Tribal governments, representatives and organizations representing those constituencies through meetings, trainings and other outreach, to facilitate a dialogue on telecommunications issues on Tribal lands and how the FCC’s rules, policies and programs impact the provision of communications services on Tribal lands and in Native homeland communities; ▪ Providing outreach to other federal regulatory agencies, for the purpose of fostering an understanding of FCC programs, policies, rules, and decisions; ▪ Providing outreach to state and local government officials for the purpose of fostering an understanding of FCC programs, policies, rules, and decisions of particular importance to state and local governments; ▪ Representing the Commission on consumer and inter-governmental-related committees, working groups, task forces, and conferences within and outside the Agency; ▪ Providing expert advice and assistance within the Commission and to consumers and industry regarding compliance with applicable disability and accessibility requirements, rules, and regulations; ▪ Serving as the focal point within the Commission for collaborating with multiple stakeholders and consumer advocacy groups to plan, develop, and implement multimedia consumer outreach campaigns, events, and programs; ▪ Researching, developing, coordinating, and distributing educational materials in multiple media and languages, online and in print to inform consumers about the Commission’s rules, procedures, policies, and programs; ▪ Coordinating all sign language interpreting requests for the Agency, producing Braille and other alternative formats of Commission materials, and ensuring they are available to Commission employees and members of the public; ▪ Coordinating with the Office of Managing Director to ensure compliance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, which requires the Commission to procure and maintain accessible information and communication technologies for Commission employees with disabilities and members of the public using these FCC resources; and, 101 ▪ Coordinating with the Chairwoman, Commissioners, Bureaus and Offices, and other federal agencies to provide Tribal perspectives on regulatory policies impacting the provision and deployment of telecommunications services on Tribal lands and to Tribal, Native Alaska and Hawaii homeland communities 102 Enforcement Bureau FY 2024 FY 2023 Enforcement Bureau FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 180 212 212 11 - Personnel compensation $26,499,965 $32,667,469 $34,267,684 12 - Personnel benefits 9,410,258 9,976,885 10,465,602 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $35,910,223 $42,644,354 $44,733,286 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $120,351 $182,580 $186,243 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 1,770,266 1,802,897 1,839,087 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 572,246 775,820 791,391 26 - Supplies and materials 62,143 91,300 93,131 31 - Equipment 1,016,600 1,888,000 1,925,901 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $3,541,606 $4,740,597 $4,835,753 TOTAL $39,451,829 $47,384,951 $49,569,039 The Enforcement Bureau serves as the primary Commission entity responsible for enforcement of the Communications Act and other communications statutes, the Commission’s rules, orders, and authorizations, other than matters that are addressed in the context of a pending application for a license or other authorization or in the context of administration, including post-grant administration, of a licensing or other authorization or registration program. The Enforcement Bureau’s responsibilities include, among other things: ▪ Investigating and resolving violations involving, for example: o The Telephone Consumer Protection Act, which generally prohibits unauthorized robocalls, and the Truth in Caller ID Act, which prohibits unlawful spoofing; o Compliance with the Pallone-Thune Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act; o Compliance with sections 222 and 631 of the Communications Act to protect against unlawful disclosure of customer proprietary network information (CPNI) and other customer data, and maintain cybersecurity; o Compliance with section 511 of the Communications Act to enforce against pirate radio activities; o Compliance with statutory and regulatory provisions, including complaints filed under section 208 of the Communications Act; 103 o Compliance with section 301 of the Communications Act requiring an FCC license or authorization for the operation of a broadcast station and wireless systems; o Accessibility to communications services and equipment for persons with disabilities; o Compliance with sections 214 and 310 of the Communications Act, to prevent unauthorized transfers of control, and compliance with rules regarding foreign ownership and control o Compliance with section 333 of the Communications Act for radiofrequency interference; o Compliance with section 302 of the Communications Act for the authorization of radiofrequency equipment and devices; o Compliance with radiofrequency licensing rules and regulations, including reporting obligations; o Compliance with the Commission’s Emergency Alert System rules; o Compliance with the Commission’s equal employment opportunity (EEO) rules; o Compliance with the statute and rules regarding paid programming and sponsorship ID; o The lighting and marking of radio transmitting towers; o Indecent communications subject to the Commission’s jurisdiction; o The broadcast and cable television children’s television programming commercial limits contained in section 102 of the Children’s Television Act; o Unauthorized construction and operation of communications facilities; including compliance with tower construction environmental and historic preservation requirements; o False distress signals; o Title III licensees and permittees; o Pole attachments filed under section 224 of the Communications Act; o Transmission of 911 calls to public safety entities, 911 outage-related communications with public safety entities, and notifications to the Commission of outages and public safety related filings; o Multichannel video and cable television service under part 76 of the Commission’s rules; and, o Other matters assigned to it by the Commission. ▪ Policing Integrity: o Investigating violations of the Communications Act, the Commission’s rules, and other laws bearing on Universal Service Fund (USF), Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), and Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) programs and contributions. Such investigations may involve coordination with the FCC’s Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Justice, and other law enforcement agencies. 104 o Overseeing proceedings suspending or debarring parties from USF programs. ▪ Safeguarding Competition: o Enforcing merger conditions and unfair or anti-competitive practices that violate the law. ▪ Securing Networks: o Investigating interference or misuse of critical infrastructure. ▪ Mediating and settling disputes between service providers, upon request. ▪ Serving as trial staff in formal hearings conducted pursuant to 5 U.S.C. § 556 regarding applications, revocation, forfeitures, and other matters designated for hearing. ▪ Providing field support for, and field representation of, the Bureau, other Bureaus and Offices, and the Commission with other federal agencies for National Security Special Events and the National Response Framework for Emergency Support Function #2 (ESF # 2) — Communications. FCC personnel, with PSHSB coordination and EB management, deploy to FEMA field offices to support communications recovery and restoration. ▪ Handling Congressional, Freedom of Information Act and other correspondence relating to or requesting specific enforcement actions, specific complaints, or other specific matters within the responsibility of the Bureau. 105 International Bureau FY 2024 FY 2023 International Bureau FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 82 88 88 11 - Personnel compensation $12,331,937 $13,785,742 $14,461,035 12 - Personnel benefits 4,198,953 4,427,064 4,643,922 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $16,530,890 $18,212,806 $19,104,957 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $6,624 $25,367 $25,875 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 571,860 573,545 585,058 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 2,410 34,700 35,375 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $580,894 $633,612 $646,308 TOTAL $17,111,784 $18,846,418 $19,751,265 The International Bureau develops, recommends, and administers policies, standards, procedures, and programs for the regulation of international telecommunications facilities and services, and the licensing of satellite and submarine cable facilities under its jurisdiction. The Bureau advises and recommends to the Commission, or acts for the Commission under delegated authority, in the development of and administration of international telecommunications policies and programs. The Bureau assumes the principal representational role for Commission activities in international organizations. The Bureau has the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Initiating and directing the development and articulation of international telecommunications policies, consistent with the priorities of the Commission; ▪ Advising the Chairwoman and Commissioners on matters of international telecommunications policy, and on the status of the Commission's actions to promote the vital interests of the American public in international commerce, national defense, and foreign policy areas; ▪ Developing, recommending, and administering policies, rules, and procedures for the authorization, licensing, and regulation of international telecommunications services and facilities (including submarine cables), and domestic and international satellite systems; ▪ Addressing present and future satellite communications and spectrum needs in the United States; ▪ Establishing rules and procedures that will support the deployment of space-based communications service by a variety of providers; 106 ▪ Promoting access, efficiency, and innovation in the use of the electromagnetic spectrum through licensing procedures and policies; ▪ Promoting investment in satellite communications infrastructure, including broadband; ▪ Ensuring choice and opportunity in the development of satellite communication services and related markets; ▪ Reviewing satellite applications, including those to assign or transfer licenses and for service and facility authorizations, in a manner that facilitates competition in the provision of satellite communications services to the benefit of consumers; ▪ Coordinating with executive branch agencies certain applications and petitions involving foreign ownership; ▪ Representing the Commission on international telecommunications matters at both domestic and international conferences and meetings and directing and coordinating the Commission’s preparation for such conferences and meetings; ▪ Serving as the single focal point within the Commission for cooperation and consultation on international telecommunications matters with other federal agencies, international or foreign organizations, and appropriate regulatory bodies and officials of foreign government; ▪ Directing and coordinating, in consultation with appropriate Bureaus and Offices, negotiation of international agreements to provide for arrangements and procedures for bilateral coordination of radio frequency assignments to prevent or resolve international radio interference involving U.S. licensees; ▪ Developing, coordinating with other federal agencies, and administering regulatory assistance and training programs for foreign administrations to promote telecommunications development; ▪ Providing advice and technical assistance to U.S. trade officials in the negotiation and implementation of telecommunications trade agreements; ▪ Collecting and disseminating within the Commission information and data on international telecommunications, and regulatory and market developments in other countries and international organizations; ▪ Promoting the international coordination of spectrum allocation, and frequency and orbital assignments, so as to minimize cases of international radio interference involving U.S. licensees; ▪ Ensuring fulfillment of the Commission’s responsibilities under international agreements and treaty obligations, and, consistent with Commission policy, ensuring that the Commission’s regulations, procedures, and frequency allocations comply with mandatory requirements of all applicable international and bilateral agreements; ▪ Overseeing and, as appropriate, administering activities pertaining to the international consultation, coordination, and notification of U.S. frequency and orbital assignments, including activities required by bilateral agreements, the International Radio Regulations, and other international agreements; and, ▪ Monitoring compliance with the terms and conditions of authorizations and licenses granted by the Bureau and pursuing enforcement actions in conjunction with appropriate Bureaus and Offices. 107 Media Bureau FY 2024 FY 2023 Media Bureau FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 125 133 133 11 - Personnel compensation $17,529,082 $18,780,009 $19,699,947 12 - Personnel benefits 6,061,601 6,087,958 6,386,176 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $23,590,683 $24,867,967 $26,086,123 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $2,660 $15,000 $15,301 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 737,100 739,272 754,112 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 86,512 101,000 103,027 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $826,272 $855,272 $872,440 TOTAL $24,416,955 $25,723,239 $26,958,563 The Media Bureau plays a key role in promoting innovation and competition in the media marketplace. The Bureau develops, recommends, and administers the policy and licensing programs for the regulation of media, including cable television, broadcast television and radio, and satellite services in the United States and its territories. The Bureau advises and recommends to the Commission, or acts for the Commission under delegated authority, in matters pertaining to multichannel video programming distribution, broadcast radio and television, direct broadcast satellite service policy, and associated matters. The Bureau will, among other things: ▪ Process applications for authorization, assignment, transfer, and renewal of licensed media services, including radio and television, and related matters; ▪ Conduct rulemaking proceedings concerning the legal, engineering, and economic aspects of the media industry; ▪ Resolve waiver petitions, declaratory rulings, and adjudications related to the media industry; and, ▪ Ensure the smooth transition of full power, Class A, LPTV, and translator stations as a result of the Incentive Auction repack and efficiently process the reimbursement claims submitted to the $2.75 billion TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund from these stations, FM stations, and multichannel video programming distributors. 108 Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau FY 2024 Public Safety and Homeland Security FY 2023 FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Bureau Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 93 104 104 11 - Personnel compensation $14,142,354 $17,363,274 $18,213,813 12 - Personnel benefits 4,863,511 5,678,921 5,957,102 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $19,005,865 $23,042,195 $24,170,915 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $108,511 $177,745 $181,312 22 - Transportation of things 1,565 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 524,259 528,493 539,100 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 435,928 659,878 673,123 26 - Supplies and materials 16,104 15,000 15,300 31 - Equipment 193,724 100,000 102,007 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $1,280,091 $1,481,116 $1,510,842 TOTAL $20,285,956 $24,523,311 $25,681,757 The Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) advises and makes recommendations to the Commission, acts for the Commission under delegated authority, and coordinates within the Commission on all matters pertaining to public safety, homeland security, national security, emergency management and preparedness, disaster management, and ancillary operations. The Bureau also performs the following functions: ▪ Develops, recommends, and administers policy goals, objectives, regulations, programs, and plans for the Commission in the areas of 911, enhanced 911, and Next Generation 911; licensing and operation of public safety radio services; priority emergency communications; alert and warning systems; Continuity of Government (COG) and Continuity of Operations (COOP); national security, emergency management and preparedness; disaster management coordination and outreach; communications infrastructure protection; reliability, resiliency, operability and interoperability of networks and communications systems; the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA); and network security; ▪ Intakes and processes applications for public safety allocated spectrum and related requests; ▪ Recommends and develops emergency plans, policies, and preparedness programs covering: (1) reporting and situational awareness of communications status during an emergency; (2) Commission functions during emergency conditions, and (3) the provision of service by communications service providers during emergency conditions; 109 ▪ Under the direction of the Defense Commissioner, coordinates the Commission’s role in homeland security, national security, emergency management and preparedness, defense mobilization, COG planning, and other functions as may be delegated during a national emergency and other events of national security significance; plans and maintains readiness to lead response for major communications disruptions as directed by the President; ▪ Administers Commission recordkeeping and information collection requirements pertaining to public safety issues; ▪ Oversees public safety-related Federal Advisory Committees; ▪ Serves as the point of contact for the U.S. Government in matters of international spectrum monitoring and interference resolution; oversees coordination of non-routine communications and materials between the Commission and international or regional public organizations or foreign administrations; ▪ Maintains and operates the Commission’s 24-hour Operations Center, Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF) and central spectrum monitoring and analysis center; ▪ Acts on emergency requests for Special Temporary Authority (STA) during non-business hours; ▪ Represents the Commission on interagency bodies supporting public safety and national security missions; ▪ Protects U.S. homeland security and national security through efforts to maintain the integrity of the U.S. telecommunications supply chain; and, ▪ Performs such other functions and duties as may be assigned or referred to it by the Commission or the Defense Commissioner. 110 Wireless Telecommunications Bureau FY 2024 FY 2023 Wireless Telecommunications Bureau FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 149 158 158 11 - Personnel compensation $9,276,218 $11,863,982 $12,445,138 12 - Personnel benefits 3,261,133 3,484,272 3,654,949 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $12,537,351 $15,348,254 $16,100,087 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $5,617 $21,300 $21,727 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 425,098 426,349 434,907 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 69,796 209,194 213,392 26 - Supplies and materials 0 1,800 1,836 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $500,511 $658,643 $671,862 TOTAL $13,037,862 $16,006,897 $16,771,949 The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) advises and makes recommendations to the Commission, or acts for the Commission under delegated authority, in matters pertaining to the regulation and licensing of wireless communications services, devices, facilities, and electromagnetic spectrum resources. The Bureau develops and recommends policy goals, objectives, programs, and plans for the Commission on matters concerning wireless communications and electromagnetic spectrum resources, drawing upon relevant economic, technological, legislative, regulatory, and judicial information and developments. Such matters include: ▪ Addressing present and future wireless communications and spectrum needs in the United States; ▪ Establishing rules and procedures that will support the deployment of 5G and the next generations of service by a variety of mobile providers; ▪ Promoting access, efficiency, and innovation in the use of the electromagnetic spectrum through licensing procedures and policies; ▪ Promoting investment in wireless communications infrastructure, including broadband; ▪ Ensuring choice and opportunity in the development of wireless communication services and related markets; 111 ▪ Reviewing wireless applications, including those to assign or transfer licenses and for service and facility authorizations, in a manner that facilitates competition in the provision of mobile wireless services to the benefit of consumers; ▪ Promoting the integration and interconnection of wireless communications networks with other communications networks and facilities; ▪ In coordination with the Office of Economics and Analytics, serving as a staff resource with regard to the development and implementation of spectrum policy through auctions, and developing, recommending, and administering policies and rules concerning the licensing of spectrum through auctions; ▪ In coordination with the Wireline Competition Bureau and the Office of Economics and Analytics, developing and recommending policies, programs, rules, and procedures concerning the use of market-based mechanisms, including competitive bidding, to distribute universal service support; and, ▪ In conjunction with the International Bureau and the Office of Engineering and Technology, representing the United States’ spectrum interests and serving as an expert resource on spectrum and infrastructure policy matters in international forums. In addition to the above, the Bureau’s activities also include: ▪ Developing and coordinating policy; ▪ Conducting rulemaking and licensing work; ▪ Acting on rule waiver requests, requests for special temporary authority, and other types of licensing matters; ▪ Facilitating the development and efficient operation of electronic systems for submission of applications for licenses and registration; ▪ Determining the resource impact of existing, planned, or recommended Commission activities concerning wireless communications; and, ▪ Reviewing and coordinating orders, programs, and actions initiated by other Bureaus and Offices in matters affecting wireless communications to ensure consistency of overall Commission policy. 112 Wireline Competition Bureau FY 2024 FY 2023 Wireline Competition Bureau FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 149 172 172 11 - Personnel compensation $23,003,243 $26,537,278 $27,837,206 12 - Personnel benefits 7,994,254 8,112,406 8,509,791 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $30,997,497 $34,649,684 $36,346,997 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $17,331 $49,000 $49,983 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 983,606 986,504 1,006,307 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 109 76,500 78,034 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $1,001,046 $1,112,004 $1,134,324 TOTAL $31,998,543 $35,761,688 $37,481,321 The Wireline Competition Bureau advises and makes recommendations to the Commission, or acts for the Commission under delegated authority, on matters concerning wireline communications and related operations, drawing on relevant legal, economic, technological, legislative and regulatory expertise, information, and developments. The Bureau has the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Working to ensure that all Americans have access to robust and affordable broadband and voice services; ▪ Working to ensure access to affordable broadband connectivity for low-income consumers, schools, school districts, libraries, and rural health care providers; ▪ Working to oversee the nation’s largest ever program to help households nationwide afford broadband service by providing qualified households discounts on their Internet service bills and an opportunity to receive a discount on a computer or tablet; ▪ Working to provide health care providers funding for telecommunications services, information services, and devices, as permitted, to provide telehealth services; ▪ Working to close the homework gap by connecting students inside and outside the classroom; ▪ Working to ensure that universal service funding contributions are equitable and sustainable;. 113 ▪ Managing and overseeing the universal service fund administrator, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), including the audit and appeals process; ▪ Working to sustain the Internet’s foundation of openness so that all Americans can create without permission, build community beyond geography, organize without physical constraints, consume content of their choice, and share ideas; ▪ Working to safeguard the security and integrity of the nation’s communications networks and communications supply chain; ▪ Developing and coordinating wireline telecommunications policy; ▪ Handling adjudicatory and rulemaking proceedings affecting wireline telecommunications service providers, VoIP providers, broadband providers, and inmate calling services providers; ▪ Preparing for Commission consideration draft orders responding to petitions, filed pursuant to the Communications Act, seeking Commission forbearance from applying certain of its regulations or provisions of the Communications Act; ▪ Administering the provisions of the Communications Act relating to charges, practices, and classifications for wireline telecommunications service providers to ensure that they are just and reasonable; ▪ Overseeing inmate calling services for incarcerated people to ensure just and reasonable rates and practices in connection with interstate, intrastate, and international calling services. ▪ Taking action on requests for waiver or interpretation of rules or statutes, where appropriate, affecting wireline telecommunications; ▪ Making determinations regarding lawfulness of carrier tariffs; ▪ Administering U.S. numbering policy (including local number portability) and developing and implementing call authentication policies to end illegal robocalls; ▪ Overseeing numbering policy pertaining to calls and texts placed with 988, the 3-digit dialing code for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. ▪ Administering consumer proprietary network information policy for telecommunications carriers; ▪ Taking action on applications filed pursuant to section 214 of the Communications Act for authorization to transfer domestic service and facility authorizations or to discontinue services or the operation of facilities; ▪ Reviewing wireline provider performance; ▪ Taking action to facilitate equal access to broadband internet access service, including measures that prevent digital discrimination of access based on income level, race, ethnicity, color, religion, or national origin and through identifying necessary steps for the Commission to take to eliminate digital discrimination of access to broadband internet access service. ▪ Overseeing the Act’s incumbent local exchange carrier network change disclosure process to ensure that interconnecting competitive local exchange carriers have timely and sufficient notice of planned network changes; 114 ▪ Regulating the rates, terms, and conditions for pole attachments, except in states that have preempted Commission authority; ▪ Administering accounting requirements for incumbent local exchange carriers; ▪ Interacting with the public; local, state, Tribal, and other government agencies; industry groups; and other stakeholders on wireline communications regulation and related matters; ▪ Fulfilling Congressional directives to report on the availability of advanced telecommunications capability to all Americans and how best to achieve the goals of universal deployment, adoption, availability, affordability, and equitable access to broadband throughout the United States; and ▪ Reviewing and coordinating orders, programs, data collections, reports, and other actions initiated by other Bureaus and Offices in matters affecting wireline communications to ensure consistency with overall Commission policy. 115 Office of Administrative Law Judges FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Administrative Law Judges FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 4 4 4 11 - Personnel compensation $500,367 $566,789 $594,552 12 - Personnel benefits 165,148 155,746 163,374 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $665,515 $722,535 $757,926 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $0 $2,000 $2,040 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 30,960 31,052 31,675 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 2,580 6,300 6,425 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $33,540 $39,352 $40,140 TOTAL $699,055 $761,887 $798,066 The Office of Administrative Law Judges (OALJ) hears and conducts all adjudicatory cases designated for formal evidentiary hearing, other than those designated to be heard by the Commission or individual Commissioners. The Office may also conduct other hearings which the Commission may assign in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). OALJ functions substantially as U.S. District Court Judges in non-jury cases, with the exception that Initial Decisions rendered are subject to review by the Commission if requested by a party, or on the Commission’s own motion. OALJ has the following responsibilities: Adjudicative ▪ Prepares and maintains hearing calendars, showing time and place of hearings; ▪ Presides over and conducts formal proceedings and adjudications; ▪ Acts on motions, petitions, and other pleadings filed in proceedings; ▪ Conducts on-the-record prehearing conferences; ▪ Issues subpoenas, administers oaths, examines witnesses, makes findings of fact, and rules upon evidentiary questions; and, ▪ Prepares and issues Initial Decisions. 116 Administrative ▪ Prepares reports, statistical data, and other information requested or received by the Office of Personnel Management, and other offices or agencies of the U.S. Government concerned with proper operation of the Office of Administrative Law Judges; ▪ Upon request of the Chairwoman, serves as liaison for the Commission in securing advice or information from representatives of agencies, bar associations, and interested persons in connection with Office practices and hearing procedures; and, ▪ Exercises such further authority as may be assigned by the Commission pursuant to section 5(c) of the Communications Act of l934, as amended. 117 Office of Communications Business Opportunities FY 2024 Office of Communications Business FY 2023 FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Opportunities Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 9 13 13 11 - Personnel compensation $1,449,947 $1,580,026 $1,657,423 12 - Personnel benefits 495,527 506,851 531,678 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $1,945,474 $2,086,877 $2,189,101 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $0 $6,100 $6,221 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 76,488 76,714 78,253 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 100 5,500 5,609 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $76,588 $88,314 $90,083 TOTAL $2,022,062 $2,175,191 $2,279,184 The Office of Communications Business Opportunities (OCBO) promotes diversity, competition, and innovation in the provision and ownership of telecommunications and information services by supporting opportunities for small businesses, as well as women-owned, and minority-owned communications businesses. A principal function of OCBO is to lead, advise, and assist the Commission, including its component Bureau and Office managers, supervisors, and staff, by ensuring the agency fully considers the competitive concerns of small businesses, women, and minorities in notice and comment rulemakings. In accordance with this function, OCBO: ▪ Conducts independent analyses of the Commission’s policies and practices to ensure those policies and practices fully consider the interests of small businesses, women-owned, and minority-owned communications businesses; and, ▪ Advises the Commission, Bureaus, and Offices of their responsibilities under the Congressional Review Act provisions regarding small businesses. The Office has the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Serving, through its Director, as the principal small business policy advisor to the Commission; ▪ Developing and recommending Commission-wide goals and objectives for addressing the concerns of small businesses, women-owned, and minority-owned communications businesses; 118 ▪ Promoting increased awareness within the Commission of the impact of policies on small businesses, women-owned, and minority-owned communications businesses; and, ▪ Managing the Regulatory Flexibility Analysis process pursuant to the Regulatory Flexibility Act and the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act to ensure that small business, women-owned, and minority-owned business interests are fully considered in agency actions; ▪ Developing, implementing, and evaluating programs and policies that promote participation by small businesses, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses in the communications industry; ▪ Developing, recommending, coordinating, and administering objectives, plans, and programs to encourage participation by small businesses, women-owned, and minority- owned communications businesses in the decision-making process; ▪ Acting as the principal channel for disseminating information regarding the Commission’s activities and programs affecting small businesses, women-owned, and minority-owned communications businesses; and, ▪ Acting as the Commission’s liaison to other federal agencies on matters relating to small businesses, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses in the communications industry. 119 Office of Economics and Analytics FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Economics and Analytics FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 109 134 134 11 - Personnel compensation $10,251,385 $11,908,863 $12,492,218 12 - Personnel benefits 3,578,829 3,703,980 3,885,418 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $13,830,214 $15,612,843 $16,377,636 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $7,169 $63,000 $64,264 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 216,299 216,936 221,290 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 2,147,024 2,418,050 2,466,590 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $2,370,492 $2,697,986 $2,752,144 TOTAL $16,200,706 $18,310,829 $19,129,780 The Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA) works with Bureaus and other Offices, including those of the Chairwoman and other Commissioners, to develop and implement communications policies in all areas of the Commission’s authority and responsibility, and to ensure the highest quality of economic and data analysis. The Office and its staff: ▪ Work collaboratively with other Bureaus and Offices on rulemakings, transaction reviews, statutory reports, and adjudications in the areas of economic and data analysis for significant communications policy issues, and especially with respect to analysis of the economic impact of Commission policies, rules, and proposals; ▪ Administer Commission auctions of spectrum licenses and universal service support and advise Bureaus and other Offices on policies related to auctions and competitive bidding; ▪ Administer and support significant, economically-relevant data collections used by a variety of Bureaus and other Offices, such as the Broadband Data Collection (BDC), and support Bureaus and Offices with their use of the data generated by these collections; ▪ Oversee and manage significant portions of the implementation of the Broadband Data Collection required by the Broadband DATA Act, including oversight of the BDC System, the development of the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric, and the technical assistance contracts; ▪ Develop, recommend, and implement policies for data management across the Commission, in conjunction with the Bureaus and other Offices; 120 ▪ Support the implementation of the Evidence Act, including the Open, Public, Electronic and Necessary (OPEN) Government Data Act and the Federal Data Strategy; ▪ Provide expert advice to the Chairwoman, Commissioners, and Bureau and Office Chiefs; and, ▪ Coordinate the development, research, and publication of Working Papers by staff to release research aside from formal Commission actions, with a focus on issues of ongoing and future potential priorities for the Commission. 121 Office of Engineering and Technology FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Engineering and Technology FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 73 79 79 11 - Personnel compensation $9,320,001 $10,767,604 $11,295,054 12 - Personnel benefits 3,403,172 3,487,151 3,657,968 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $12,723,173 $14,254,755 $14,953,022 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $6,293 $13,000 $13,260 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 382,334 383,464 391,161 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 570,868 631,467 644,141 26 - Supplies and materials 12,250 12,550 12,800 31 - Equipment 151,810 200,750 204,779 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $1,123,555 $1,241,231 $1,266,141 TOTAL $13,846,728 $15,495,986 $16,219,163 The Office of Engineering and Technology administers all non-federal spectrum allocations; authorizes spectrum for experimental, unlicensed, and industrial, scientific, and medical equipment use; manages the Commission’s equipment authorization program to ensure radio equipment compliance with its technical rules; and provides expert advice on a broad array of technical and engineering issues before the Commission, including recommendations on technical standards for spectrum users and radiofrequency equipment and parts or components thereof. The Office’s responsibilities include: ▪ Developing overall policies, objectives, and priorities for the Office of Engineering and Technology programs and activities; performing management functions; and supervising the execution of these policies; ▪ Advising and representing the Commission on frequency allocation and spectrum usage matters, including those covered by international agreements; ▪ Planning and directing broad programs for development of information relative to communication techniques and equipment, radio wave propagation, broadband performance measurement and coverage mapping, and new uses for communications, and advising the Commission and staff offices in such matters; ▪ Representing the Commission at various national and international conferences and meetings devoted to the progress of radio communications and the development of technologies and standards; 122 ▪ Conducting engineering and technical analyses in advanced phases of terrestrial and space communications, and special projects to obtain theoretical and experimental data on new or improved spectrum access and sharing techniques, including cooperative studies with other staff units and consultant and contract efforts as appropriate; ▪ Advising the Commission and other Bureaus/Offices concerning spectrum management, emerging technologies, technical standards, international considerations, and national security matters involved in making or implementing policy or in resolving specific situations involving these matters; ▪ Developing and implementing procedures to acquire, store and retrieve scientific and technical information required in the engineering work of the Commission; ▪ Administering Parts 2 (Frequency allocations, radio treaty matters, and equipment authorization procedures), 5 (Experimental radio service), 15 (Unlicensed radio frequency devices), and 18 (Industrial, scientific and medical equipment) of the Commission’s Rules and Regulations; ▪ Performing technical, engineering and management functions of the Commission with respect to formulating rules and regulations, technical standards, and general policies for Parts 2, 5, 15 and 18; ▪ Providing advice to the Commission, participating in and coordinating staff work with respect to general frequency allocation proceedings and other proceedings not within the jurisdiction of any single Bureau, and providing assistance and advice with respect to rulemaking matters and proceedings affecting more than one Bureau; ▪ Managing the Commission’s equipment authorization program to ensure radio equipment compliance with its technical rules. Maintaining a test facility with appropriate and latest equipment to perform technical analyses to facilitate introduction of new services and technology and compliance testing of devices subject to the Commission’s technical rules; ▪ Managing the Commission’s experimental licensing program to promote new and innovative technologies and services; ▪ Administering the Commission’s Measuring Broadband America program, an ongoing nationwide performance study of broadband service that provides information for consumers; ▪ Maintaining liaison with other agencies of government, technical experts representing foreign governments and members of the public and industry concerned with communications and frequency allocation and usage; ▪ Coordinating frequency assignments for Commission licensees with Federal Government agencies and representing the Commission on issues regarding use of spectrum when jurisdiction is shared with the Federal Government. Serves as the Agency liaison to National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) within the Department of Commerce for coordinating policy decisions and frequency assignments between Federal agency and non-Federal spectrum users; and, ▪ Preparing technical assistance for legislation and reviewing recommendations for rule changes and rulemaking proposals initiated by other offices affecting Bureau programs and operations. 123 Office of General Counsel FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of General Counsel FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 65 79 79 11 - Personnel compensation $10,794,092 $13,277,553 $13,927,953 12 - Personnel benefits 3,738,817 4,187,151 4,392,257 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $14,532,909 $17,464,704 $18,320,210 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $1,000 $48,000 $48,963 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 526,034 527,584 538,174 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 1,303,998 2,169,495 2,213,045 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $1,831,032 $2,745,079 $2,800,182 TOTAL $16,363,941 $20,209,783 $21,120,392 As chief legal advisor to the Commission and its various components, the Office of General Counsel performs the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Reviews all proposed Commission orders and rules for consistency with the Constitution, laws of the United States, and other rules and precedents; ▪ Represents the Commission in litigation and other dispute-resolution matters; ▪ Ensures consistent and timely public-interest analysis of mergers and other transactions and provides antitrust, corporate, and technical expertise; ▪ Protects the Commission’s regulatory and pecuniary interests in actual and potential bankruptcy cases; ▪ Advises the Commission on efforts to address waste, fraud and abuse and recoup improper payments in False Claims Act investigations, litigation, and settlement negotiations; ▪ Assists and makes recommendations to the Commission with respect to matters handled via adjudication (including the Commission’s review of initial decisions by Administrative Law Judges), as well as with respect to such other matters that, by Commission policy, are handled in a similar manner and that have been designated for hearing; ▪ Advises and makes recommendations to the Commission with respect to proposed legislation; ▪ Interprets statutes, regulations, and international agreements affecting the Commission; 124 ▪ Prepares for the Commission procedural rules of general applicability and makes recommendations concerning the interpretation and implementation of such rules; ▪ Provides advice to the Commission and its components on general law issues (e.g., leases, contracts, debt collection, tort claims, fiscal law, and labor law) common to most federal agencies; ▪ Serves as principal advisor to the Commission in the administration of laws and regulations regarding government ethics, the Freedom of Information, Privacy, Government in the Sunshine, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Acts; ▪ Manages and directs the Attorney Honors Program, the agency’s primary hiring and recruitment vehicle for entry level attorneys; and, ▪ Exercises such authority as may be assigned or referred to it by the Commission pursuant to section 5(c) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, as well as the Commission’s rules. 125 Office of Legislative Affairs FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Legislative Affairs FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 8 8 8 11 - Personnel compensation $1,180,007 $1,273,965 $1,336,370 12 - Personnel benefits 424,551 434,341 455,617 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $1,604,558 $1,708,306 $1,791,987 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $100 $200 $204 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 88,584 88,844 90,627 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 0 0 0 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $88,684 $89,044 $90,831 TOTAL $1,693,242 $1,797,350 $1,882,818 The Office of Legislative Affairs informs the Congress of the Commission’s decisions, facilitates responses to Congressional letters and inquiries, and provides technical assistance to Congressional staff regarding proposed legislation. Specifically, the Office has the following functions: ▪ Advising and making recommendations to the Commission with respect to legislation proposed by Members of Congress or other government agencies and coordinating the preparation of the agency’s technical assistance for submission to Congress or other government agencies; ▪ Tracking, monitoring, and analyzing legislation impacting the Commission, and providing technical assistance to Congressional staff, as necessary; ▪ Preparing and coordinating Commission and Bureau responses to Congressional inquiries on legislative, regulatory, or policy matters by Congressional committees and individual Members of Congress, including tracking inquiries and setting response times; ▪ Prepare the FCC Chairwoman and all Commission-designated witnesses for appearances before the United States Congress; ▪ Coordinating briefings for Congressional Members and staff on issues before the Commission; ▪ Communicating and consulting with Congressional Members and staff on the Commission’s policy agenda; ▪ Assisting the staffs of Members of Congress in responding to constituent concerns; and, 126 ▪ Assisting the Office of Managing Director in the preparation of annual reporting requirements to Congress, including the annual submission of the Commission’s budget. 127 Office of the Managing Director FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of the Managing Director FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 181 192 192 11 - Personnel compensation $25,554,563 $29,425,598 $30,851,464 12 - Personnel benefits 7,165,630 8,374,208 8,774,709 13 - Benefits for former personnel 51,600 51,600 54,127 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $32,771,793 $37,851,406 $39,680,300 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $477,243 $701,819 $715,901 22 - Transportation of things 42,125 57,104 58,249 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 20,365,510 20,822,053 21,240,046 24 - Printing and reproduction 1,138,246 1,243,000 1,267,953 25 - Other contractual services 49,889,930 52,337,033 57,723,076 26 - Supplies and materials 459,128 693,287 707,198 31 - Equipment 8,577,693 460,538 469,780 32 - Land & Structures 485,570 493,367 503,270 40 - Insurance claims and interest 162,508 231,177 235,816 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $81,597,953 $77,039,378 $82,921,289 TOTAL $114,369,746 $114,890,784 $122,601,589 The Managing Director is appointed by the Chairwoman with approval of the Commissioners. Under the supervision and direction of the Chairwoman, the Managing Director serves as the Commission’s Chief Operating Officer with the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Providing managerial leadership to, and exercising supervision and direction over, the Commission’s Bureaus and Offices with respect to organization and operations, information technology systems and cybersecurity, and personnel and contract management; ▪ Providing input to Commission policy development and rulemakings on operational requirements, implementation risks and feasibility, software and systems requirements, fraud prevention and audit considerations, and financial and budgetary impacts; ▪ Managing all budget and financial operations within the Commission, including: collection of approved regulatory fees for agency operations; overseeing funding allocations and performance management for the operations of the Commission’s Bureaus and Offices; managing of auction proceeds; accounting for other monies received by the Commission including licensing fees, forfeitures, and other actions; and providing financial oversight of the Universal Service Fund (USF), Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) Fund, and the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) Fund; ▪ Formulating and implementing management and operational policies, programs, and directives for the Commission consistent with the authority delegated by the Commission 128 and the Chairwoman and recommending to the Chairwoman and the Commission major changes in such policies and programs; ▪ Advising the Chairwoman and the Commission on management, organizational, and operational matters; reviewing and evaluating the programs and procedures of the Commission; and initiating action or making recommendations as may be necessary to administer the Communications Act most effectively in the public interest; and, ▪ Assist the Chairwoman in carrying out the administrative and executive responsibilities delegated to the Chairwoman as the administrative head of the agency. 129 Office of Media Relations FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Media Relations FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 12 12 12 11 - Personnel compensation $1,613,507 $1,666,250 $1,747,871 12 - Personnel benefits 580,607 578,110 606,427 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $2,194,114 $2,244,360 $2,354,298 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $2,545 $15,000 $15,301 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 97,720 98,009 99,976 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 178,961 224,280 228,781 26 - Supplies and materials 1,454 3,956 4,034 31 - Equipment 3,157 7,009 7,149 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $283,837 $348,254 $355,241 TOTAL $2,477,951 $2,592,614 $2,709,539 The FCC’s Office of Media Relations is the agency’s liaison to the news media. It provides information to the public about the work of the FCC, manages content on the Commission’s website, oversees the release of FCC documents, leads the agency’s social media accounts, and manages external-facing and event audio/visual services. The Office’s duties and responsibilities include: ▪ Serving as the agency’s primary liaison to the news media; ▪ Producing press releases, fact sheets, speeches, and other public relations materials; ▪ Managing and creating content for the FCC's social media sites, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and others; ▪ Managing the Commission’s website, working with other Bureaus and Offices to create and manage website content, overseeing and implementing the look and feel of the FCC.gov homepage, managing the use and display of images, and overseeing the agency’s web standards and guidelines; ▪ Overseeing and directing primary video content for official Commission activities and events– including the monthly Open Commission Meeting – which is used for public outreach, educational outreach and support of Commission priorities, and includes all public meetings; ▪ Serving as primary media relations liaison for the Office of the Chairwoman; 130 Office of Workplace Diversity FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Workplace Diversity FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 6 8 8 11 - Personnel compensation $652,065 $995,396 $1,044,154 12 - Personnel benefits 239,458 326,627 342,626 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $891,523 $1,322,023 $1,386,780 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $0 $5,000 $5,100 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 30,048 30,136 30,740 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 97,929 101,500 103,535 26 - Supplies and materials 0 0 0 31 - Equipment 0 0 0 40 - Insurance claims and interest 0 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $127,977 $136,636 $139,375 TOTAL $1,019,500 $1,458,659 $1,526,155 The Office of Workplace Diversity develops, coordinates, evaluates, and recommends to the Commission policies, programs, and practices that foster a diverse workforce, and promotes and ensures equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all employees and applicants. A principal function of the Office is to lead, advise, and assist the Commission, including its component Bureau/Office managers, supervisors, and staff at all levels, on ways to promote inclusion and full participation of all employees in pursuit of the Commission’s mission. In accordance with this principal function, the Office shall: (1) conduct independent analyses of the Commission’s policies and practices to ensure that those policies and practices foster diversity in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity for employees and job applicants; and (2) advise the Commission, Bureaus, and Offices of their responsibilities under: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as Amended; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended; Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended; Executive Order 11478; the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act and all other statutes, Executive Orders, and regulatory provisions relating to workforce diversity, equal employment opportunity, nondiscrimination, and civil rights. The Office has the following duties and responsibilities: ▪ Serving, through its Director, as the principal advisor to the Chairwoman and Commission officials on all aspects of workforce diversity, organization, EEO, nondiscrimination, and civil rights; ▪ Providing leadership and guidance to create a work environment that values and encourages diversity in the workforce; 131 ▪ Developing, implementing, and evaluating programs and policies to foster a workforce whose composition reflects the diverse makeup of the Nation, enhances the mission of the Commission, and demonstrates the value and effectiveness of a diverse workforce and work environment that is inclusive and accessible; ▪ Developing, implementing, and evaluating programs and policies that promote understanding among members of the Commission's workforce of their differences and the value of those differences, and provides a channel for communication among diverse members of the workforce at all levels; ▪ Developing, implementing, and evaluating programs and policies to ensure that all members of the Commission’s workforce and candidates for employment have equal access to opportunities for employment, career growth, training, and development, and are protected from discrimination and harassment; ▪ Developing and recommending Commission-wide workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility goals and reporting on achievements; ▪ Developing, implementing, and evaluating programs and policies to enable all Bureaus and Offices to manage a diverse workforce effectively and in compliance with all EEO and civil rights requirements; ▪ Working closely with the Associate Managing Director - Human Resources Management to ensure compliance with Federal and Commission recruitment and staffing requirements; ▪ Managing the Commission’s EEO compliance program. Responsibilities in this area include processing complaints alleging discrimination, issuing final agency decisions on EEO complaints within the Commission, and providing consulting services to employees and applicants for employment on EEO matters; ▪ Developing and administering the Commission’s program of reasonable accommodation for employees and job applicants with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws and regulations; ▪ Developing and administering the Commission’s program of Alternative Dispute Resolution to provide conflict resolution strategies (including a mediation process) and to promote the use of dispute prevention and alternative dispute techniques; ▪ Representing the Commission at meetings with other public and private groups and organizations on matters concerning workforce diversity and EEO; and, ▪ Maintaining liaison with and soliciting views of organizations within and outside the Commission on matters relating to EEO and workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. 132 Office of Inspector General FY 2024 FY 2023 Office of Inspector General FY 2022 Actuals Estimates to Enacted Congress Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) 46 60 60 11 - Personnel compensation $6,815,456 $8,289,099 $8,693,773 12 - Personnel benefits 2,373,987 2,531,646 2,655,658 13 - Benefits for former personnel 0 0 0 Subtotal - Personnel Costs $9,189,443 $10,820,745 $11,349,431 21 - Travel & transportation of persons $6,177 $68,773 $70,152 22 - Transportation of things 0 0 0 23 - Rent, Communications, and Utilities 346,298 344,140 351,047 24 - Printing and reproduction 0 0 0 25 - Other contractual services 104,373 862,775 880,113 26 - Supplies and materials 0 577 587 31 - Equipment 0 33,990 34,670 40 - Insurance claims and interest 98 0 0 Subtotal - Non-Personnel Costs $456,946 $1,310,255 $1,336,569 TOTAL $9,646,389 $12,131,000 $12,686,000 The FCC’s OIG was established in compliance with the Inspector General Act of 1978 (Public Law 94-454), as amended. OIG conducts and supervises audits, inspections and investigations relating to FCC programs and operations. OIG provides management feedback, leadership, and recommends policies for activities designed to promote economy, efficiency, and increase the effectiveness of the administration. Further, the OIG works to both prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse in such programs and operations. OIG communicates with the Commission and Congress to keep them informed about issues and deficiencies relating to the administration of such programs and operations and the necessity for and progress of corrective action. The Inspector General reports directly to the Commission. The primary duties and responsibilities of OIG include: ▪ Conducting, supervising, and coordinating audits and investigations relating to the programs and operations of the FCC; ▪ Reviewing existing and proposed legislation and regulations relating to programs and operations of the FCC and making recommendations in semiannual reports required by section 5(a) of the Inspector General Act concerning the impact of such legislation or regulations on the economy and efficiency in the administration of programs and operations administered or financed by the FCC and the prevention and detection of fraud, waste, and abuse in such programs and operations; ▪ Recommending policies for and conducting or coordinating other activities carried out by or financed by the FCC for the purpose of promoting economy and efficiency in the 133 administration of or preventing and detecting fraud and abuse in its programs and operations; ▪ Recommending policies for matters relating to the promotion of economy and efficiency in the administration of, or the prevention and detection of fraud and abuse in, programs and operations administered or financed by the FCC; and, ▪ Reporting expeditiously to the Attorney General whenever the Inspector General has reasonable grounds to believe there has been a violation of Federal criminal law. 134 APPENDICES 135 This page is intentionally left blank 136 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary - Requested Resources DISTRIBUTION OF BUDGET AUTHORITY (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 Change to FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Budget Actuals Enacted Congress Authority FCC - Without Office of Inspector General (OIG): Authority to Spend Offsetting Collections: Total - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections)1 $341,890 $378,061 $398,057 $19,996 Authority to Spend Other Offsetting Collections: Spectrum Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursement $106,137 $132,231 $136,167 $3,936 Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements $564 $4,000 $4,000 $0 Total - Other Offsetting Collections $106,701 $136,231 $140,167 $3,936 Total Budget Authority - FCC Without OIG $448,591 $514,292 $538,224 $23,932 FCC - Office of Inspector General: Authority to Spend Offsetting Collections: Total - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) $9,646 $12,131 $12,686 $555 Authority to Spend Other Offsetting Collections: Spectrum Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursement $0 $0 $0 $0 Total Budget Authority - Office of Inspector General $9,646 $12,131 $12,686 $555 TOTAL - FCC with Office of Inspector General TOTAL - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) $351,537 $390,192 $410,743 $20,551 TOTAL - Spectrum Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursement $106,137 $132,231 $136,167 $3,936 TOTAL - Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements $564 $4,000 $4,000 $0 TOTAL - Budget Authority Request $458,237 $526,423 $550,910 $24,487 1The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 137 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary - Requested Resources OUTLAYS (Dollars in Millions) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Actuals Enacted Congress FCC - Without Office of Inspector General: New Offsetting Collections: Regulatory Fees1 $342 $378 $398 Spectrum Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursement $106 $132 $136 Economy Act Reimbursable Agreements $1 $4 $4 Subtotal - Outlays from Offsetting Collections Authority (FCC) $449 $514 $538 FCC - Office of Inspector General (OIG): New Offsetting Collections: Outlays from New Offsetting Collections Authority (OIG) $10 $12 $13 TOTAL OUTLAYS - Offsetting Collections Authority $459 $526 $551 1 The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. FULL-TIME EQUIVALENTs (FTEs) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Actuals Enacted Congress Total Compensable Work Years: Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) Employment 1,421 1,600 1,600 Proposed Distribution: Offsetting Collections - Commission without OIG 1,198 1,337 1,337 Offsetting Collections - Office of Inspector General 46 60 60 Subtotal - Regulatory Fees (Offsetting Collections) 1,244 1,397 1,397 Spectrum Auctions Program 177 203 203 TOTAL FTEs - COMMISSION 1,421 1,600 1,600 The FTE numbers include the Spectrum Auctions Program FTEs. 138 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary - Distribution of Resources REGULATORY FEES – OFFSETTING COLLECTIONS (INCLUDING OIG) (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $188,667 $221,425 $232,254 Personnel benefits (12.0) 64,093 69,404 72,795 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $252,760 $290,829 $305,049 Other Expenses: Benefits for former personnel (13.0) $52 $52 $54 Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) 944 $2,363 $2,411 Transportation of things (22.0) 44 $57 $58 Rent payments to GSA (23.1) 23,601 $23,776 $24,254 Communications, utilities, & misc. charges (23.3) 5,089 $5,532 $5,643 Printing and reproduction (24.0) 1,138 $1,243 $1,268 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) 17,864 $26,340 $26,855 Other goods & services from Federal sources (25.3) 6,616 $5,815 $5,932 Operation & maintenance of equipment (25.7) 32,286 $29,951 $34,901 Supplies and materials (26.0) 551 $820 $836 Equipment (31.0) 9,943 $2,690 $2,744 Land and structures (32.0) 486 $493 $503 Insurance claims & interest (40.0) 163 $231 $236 Subtotal - Other Expenses $98,777 $99,363 $105,694 Total Obligations from Regulatory Fees $351,537 $390,192 $410,743 Total Resources from Regulatory Fees 1 $351,537 $390,192 $410,743 1The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 139 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary - Distribution of Resources SPECTRUM AUCTIONS COST RECOVERY REIMBURSABLE AUTHORITY (INCLUDING OIG) (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $26,966 $28,587 $30,192 Personnel benefits (12.0) 9,608 9,443 $9,995 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $36,574 $38,030 $40,187 Other Expenses: Benefits for former personnel (13.0) $9 $8 $9 Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $89 $387 395 Transportation of things (22.0) $5 $9 9 Rent payments to GSA (23.1) $4,598 $4,615 4,708 Communications, utilities, & misc. charges (23.3) $1,787 $2,194 2,238 Printing and reproduction (24.0) $185 $217 221 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $16,052 $35,241 35,836 Other goods & services from Federal sources (25.3) $1,309 $932 951 Operation & maintenance of equipment (25.7) $41,668 $49,930 50,933 Supplies and materials (26.0) $86 $119 121 Equipment (31.0) $3,768 $529 539 Insurance claims & interest (40.0) $7 $20 20 Subtotal - Other Expenses $69,563 $94,201 $95,980 Total - Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursable Authority $106,137 $132,231 $136,167 140 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary – Distribution of Resources GOVERNMENT/OTHER REIMBURSABLE AUTHORITY (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $223 $350 $350 Personnel benefits (12.0) $77 90 90 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $300 $440 $440 Other Expenses: Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $19 $50 $50 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $30 2,735 2,735 Operation & maintenance of equipment (25.7) $214 425 425 Supplies and materials (26.0) $0 50 50 Equipment (31.0) $0 300 300 Subtotal - Other Expenses $264 $3,560 $3,560 Total Government/Other Reimbursable Authority $564 $4,000 $4,000 CREDIT PROGRAM ACCOUNT (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Other Expenses: Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $7 $36 $0 Subtotal - Other Expenses $7 $36 $0 Total Credit Program $7 $36 $0 Note: The Commission is currently working with OMB to close out the Credit Program. OIG has no Credit Program funds. 141 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary – Distribution of Resources TV BROADCASTER RELOCATION FUND (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $444 $761 $0 Subtotal - Other Expenses $444 $761 $0 Total TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund $444 $761 $0 Note: The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 (2012 Act) mandated that the Commission reimburse reasonable channel relocation costs incurred by those qualified TV Broadcasters that will be affected by spectrum relocation. The 2012 Act also gave the Commission the authority to use $1.75 billion from Incentive Auction revenues to reimburse TV Broadcasters for relocation costs. Additional authority totaling $1 billion was provided to the Commission for this and for other purposes by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018, Public Law 115-141. The TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund is capped at $2.75 billion. The amount shown for FY 2023 is the actual carryover of funds that is available until July 3, 2023. Any remaining unused funds from FY 2023 will be transferred to the Treasury. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL – UNIVERSAL SERVICE FUND (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $9 $30 $0 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) 1,087 4,185 0 Equipment (31.0) 0 65 0 Subtotal - Other Expenses $1,096 $4,280 $0 Total Universal Service Program $1,096 $4,280 $0 Note: The Office of Inspector General (OIG) - Universal Service Fund (USF) represents carryover funds. These resources are presented in a separate schedule apart from the Salaries & Expenses account and funded from amounts transferred from the USF in FY 2008, as permitted in appropriations language for that year. No new budget authority is requested by the OIG in FYs 2023 and 2024. The carryover balances will be used to continue the USF oversight by OIG. Any remaining unused funds from FY 2023 will be carried over to FY 2024. 142 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary – Distribution of Resources REGULATORY FEES – OFFSETTING COLLECTIONS (EXCLUDING OIG) (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $181,851 $213,135 $223,560 Personnel benefits (12.0) 61,719 $66,873 70,139 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $243,570 $280,008 $293,699 Other Expenses: Benefits for former personnel (13.0) $52 $52 $54 Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $938 2,295 $2,341 Transportation of things (22.0) $44 57 $58 Rent payments to GSA (23.1) $23,255 23,432 $23,902 Communications, utilities, & misc. charges (23.3) $5,089 5,532 $5,643 Printing and reproduction (24.0) $1,138 1,243 $1,268 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $17,802 25,584 $26,085 Other goods & services from Federal sources (25.3) $6,574 5,708 $5,822 Operation & maintenance of equipment (25.7) $32,286 29,951 $34,901 Supplies and materials (26.0) $551 819 $835 Equipment (31.0) $9,943 2,656 $2,710 Land and structures (32.0) $486 493 $503 Insurance claims & interest (40.0) $162 231 $236 Subtotal - Other Expenses $98,320 $98,053 $104,358 Total - Obligations from Regulatory Fees $341,890 $378,061 $398,057 Total - Resources from Regulatory Fees 1 $341,890 $378,061 $398,057 1The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 143 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary – Distribution of Resources SPECTRUM AUCTIONS COST RECOVERY REIMBURSEMENT AUTHORITY (EXCLUDING OIG) (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $26,966 $28,587 $30,192 Personnel benefits (12.0) 9,608 9,443 9,995 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $36,574 $38,030 $40,187 Other Expenses: Benefits for former personnel (13.0) $8 $8 $9 Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $89 $387 395 Transportation of things (22.0) $6 $9 9 Rent payments to GSA (23.1) $4,598 $4,616 4,708 Communications, utilities, & misc. charges (23.3) $1,787 $2,194 2,238 Printing and reproduction (24.0) $185 $217 221 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $16,052 $35,241 35,836 Other goods & services from Federal sources (25.3) $1,309 $932 951 Operation & maintenance of equipment (25.7) $41,668 $49,930 50,933 Supplies and materials (26.0) $86 $119 121 Equipment (31.0) $3,768 $528 539 Insurance claims & interest (40.0) $7 $20 20 Subtotal - Other Expenses $69,563 $94,201 $95,980 Total - Auctions Cost Recovery Reimbursable Obligations $106,137 $132,231 $136,167 144 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary – Distribution of Resources REGULATORY FEES – OFFSETTING COLLECTIONS (OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL) (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimates to Object Classification Description Actuals Enacted Congress Personnel Compensation & Benefits: Full-time & Other than full-time Permanent (11.1 & 11.3) $6,815 $8,289 $8,694 Personnel benefits (12.0) 2,374 $2,531 2,655 Subtotal - Personnel Compensation & Benefits $9,189 $10,820 $11,349 Other Expenses: Travel & transportation of persons (21.0) $6 $69 $70 Rent payments to GSA (23.1) $347 344 351 Other services from non-Federal sources (25.2) $62 755 770 Other goods & services from Federal sources (25.3) $42 108 110 Supplies and materials (26.0) $0 1 1 Equipment (31.0) $0 34 35 Subtotal - Other Expenses $457 $1,311 $1,337 Total - Obligations from Regulatory Fees $9,647 $12,131 $12,686 Total - Resources from Regulatory Fees $9,647 $12,131 $12,686 145 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Summary - Distribution of Resources by Strategic Goals Promote Fiscal Year 2022 -2024 Diversity, Enhance Advance Pursue a "100 Equity, Public America's Strategic Goals Percent" Inclusion Safety and Global Foster Broadband and Empower National Competitive- Operational Policy Acessibility Consumers Security ness Excellence TOTAL Regulatory Fees: FY 2022 Actuals $60,150 $1,407 $57,265 $33,932 $111,514 $87,269 $351,537 FY 2023 Congressional Request $66,764 $1,561 $63,561 $37,663 $123,776 $96,865 $390,192 Less: FY 2023 One-Time Investment Requests $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 -$1,080 -$1,080 FY 2024 Base Level $66,764 $1,561 $63,561 $37,663 $123,776 $95,785 $389,112 FY 2024 Adjustments to Base: Salary Inflationary Increase $3,417 $150 $1,956 $1,546 $5,014 $2,137 $14,220 Non-Salary Inflationary Increase $336 $8 $320 $190 $624 $483 $1,961 Base Increases $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $2,450 $2,450 One-Time Investment Requests $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $3,000 $3,000 Subtotal $3,753 $158 $2,276 $1,736 $5,638 $8,069 $21,631 FY 2024 Budget Estimates $70,517 $1,720 $65,838 $39,399 $129,414 $103,855 $410,743 Spectrum Auctions Program FY 2022 Actuals $21,225 $13 $246 $71 $29,546 $55,036 $106,137 FY 2023 Congressional Request $26,444 $16 $306 $88 $36,811 $68,566 $132,231 FY 2024 Base Level $26,444 $16 $306 $88 $36,811 $68,566 $132,231 FY 2024 Adjustments to Base: Salary Inflationary Increase $431 $1 $5 $1 $600 $1,117 $2,156 Non-Salary Inflationary Increase $356 $1 $4 $1 $496 $922 $1,780 FY 2024 Budget Estimates $27,231 $18 $315 $91 $37,907 $70,605 $136,167 1Refer to page 55 for a summary and status of these other budget authorities that were already provided. 146 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Estimates to Congress Allocation of Obligations by Budget Object Class Code (Dollars in Thousands) Reversal of FY 2023 Non-Payroll FY 2024 FY 2022 FY 2023 One-Time FY 2024 Base One-Time Inflationary Estimates to Budget Object Class Codes and Descriptions Actuals Enacted Requests Base Increase Requests Pay Increase Increase Congress 11 Personnel Compensation $188,667 $221,425 $0 $221,425 $0 $0 $10,830 $0 $232,255 12 Benefits $64,093 $69,405 $0 $69,405 $0 $0 $3,388 $2 $72,795 13 Benefits for former personnel $52 $52 $0 $52 $0 $0 $2 $0 $54 21 Travel & transportation of persons $944 $2,363 $0 $2,363 $0 $0 $0 $48 $2,411 22 Transportation of things $44 $57 $0 $57 $0 $0 $0 $1 $58 23.1 Rent payments to GSA $23,601 $23,776 $0 $23,776 $0 $0 $0 $477 $24,253 23.3 Communications, utilities, & misc. charges $5,089 $5,532 $0 $5,532 $0 $0 $0 $111 $5,643 24 Printing and reproduction $1,138 $1,243 $0 $1,243 $0 $0 $0 $25 $1,268 25.2 Other services from non-Federal sources $17,864 $26,340 $0 $26,340 $0 $0 $0 $516 $26,855 25.3 Other goods & services from Federal sources $6,616 $5,815 $0 $5,815 $0 $0 $0 $117 $5,932 25.7 Operation & maintenance of equipment $32,286 $29,951 -$1,080 $28,871 $2,450 $3,000 $0 $579 $34,900 26 Supplies and materials $551 $819 $0 $819 $0 $0 $0 $16 $835 31 Equipment $9,943 $2,690 $0 $2,690 $0 $0 $0 $54 $2,744 32 Land and structures $486 $493 $0 $493 $0 $0 $0 $10 $503 40 Insurance claims & interest $163 $231 $0 $231 $0 $0 $0 $5 $236 Regulatory Fees Budget Authority Request $351,537 $390,192 -$1,080 $389,112 $2,450 $3,000 $14,220 $1,961 $410,743 Spectrum Auction Cost Recovery Reimbursement $106,137 $132,231 $0 $132,231 $0 $0 $2,156 $1,780 $136,167 Reimbursables - Government/Other $564 $4,000 $0 $4,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $4,000 TOTAL Budget Authority Request $458,238 $526,423 -$1,080 $525,343 $2,450 $3,000 $16,376 $3,741 $550,910 Note: The Commission’s other budget authorities are summarized on page 55. 147 This page is intentionally left blank 148 EXHIBITS AND REPORTS 149 This page is intentionally left blank 150 Award Spending Estimates As required by OMB Circular A-11, Section 32.1, the following chart summarizes the Commission’s award estimates for FYs 2023 and 2024. (Dollars in Thousands) FY 2023 Estimated Salary Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST Positions $240,076 Estimate Percentage of Award Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST 2.02% FY 2023 Estimated Award Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST $4,860 FY 2024 Estimated Salary Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST Positions $254,419 Estimate Percentage of Award Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST 1.96% FY 2024 Estimated Award Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST $4,992 Estimated Increase in FY 2024 Award Spending for Non-SES/SL/ST $132 151 Universal Service Fund Exhibit Under the Telecommunications Act of 1996, telecommunications carriers that provide interstate and international telecommunications services are required to contribute funds for the preservation and advancement of universal service. The contributions generally provided, in turn, by each carrier's subscribers, are used to provide services eligible for universal service support as prescribed by the FCC. Administrative costs of the program are provided from carrier contributions. For budgetary purposes, the USF consist of four universal service support mechanisms. In addition, in Fiscal Year 2020 the Commission adopted the final rules for the Connected Care Pilot Program, to provide $100 million in funding to selected applicants for select pilot projects covering 85% of the eligible costs of broadband connectivity, network equipment, and information services necessary to provide connected care services to the intended population over a three year period. Public Law 117-328 temporarily suspended the application of the Antideficiency Act to the Federal USF programs authorized under section 210 of the Communications Act of 1934, through December 31, 2023. The Antideficiency Act requires that funds be available before incurring an obligation on behalf of the Federal Government. Program and Financing (in millions of dollars) 2022 Actual 2023 Est. 2024 Est. Obligation by program activity: 0001 Universal service fund $11,753 $15,685 $18,863 0002 Program support $222 $273 $257 0900 Total new obligations (object class 41.0) $11,975 $15,958 $19,120 Budgetary resources 1000 Unobligated balance carried forward, start of year ($8,870) ($12,438) ($21,304) 1021 Recoveries of prior year unpaid obligations $678 $882 $664 1033 Recoveries of prior year paid obligations $33 $0 $0 1050 Unobligated balance (total) ($8,159) ($11,556) ($20,640) Budget authority: Mandatory 1201 Appropriation(special fund) - Receipt $7,696 $8,105 $8,379 1260 Appropriation, mandatory (total) $7,696 $8,105 $8,379 Spending authority from offsetting collections, mandatory: 1900 Budget authority (total) $7,696 $8,105 $8,379 1930 Total budgetary resources available ($463) ($3,451) ($12,261) 1941 Unexpired unobligated balance, end of year ($12,438) ($19,409) ($31,381) Change in obligated balances: 3000 Unpaid obligated balance, start of year $15,275 $18,718 $25,316 3010 Obligation incurred, unexpired accounts $11,975 $15,958 $19,120 3020 Total outlays (gross) ($7,854) ($8,478) ($9,054) 3040 Recoveries of prior year obligations ($678) ($882) ($664) 3050 Unpaid obligated balance, end of year (net) $18,718 $25,316 $34,718 3100 Obligation balance, start of year $15,275 $18,718 $25,316 3200 Obligation balance, end of year $18,718 $25,316 $34,718 Budget authority and outlays net: 4090 Budget authority gross: $7,696 $8,105 $8,379 4100 Outlays from new mandatory authority $3,468 $4,057 $4,606 4101 Outlays from new mandatory balances $4,386 $4,421 $4,448 4110 Total outlays (net) $7,854 $8,478 $9,054 Offsets against gross budget authority and outlays 4123 Offsetting collection from Non-Federal sources ($33) $0 $0 4143 Recoveries of prior year paid obligations, unexpired accounts $33 $0 $0 4160 Budget authority net (mandatory) $7,696 $8,105 $8,379 4170 Outlays net (mandatory) $7,821 $8,478 $9,054 4180 Budget authority net (total) $7,696 $8,105 $8,379 4190 Outlays net (total) $7,821 $8,478 $9,054 Memorandum (non-add) entries: 5000 Total investments, start of year: Federal securities: Par value $0 $0 $0 5001 Total investments, end of year: Federal securities: Par value $0 $0 $0 Unexpended balance memorandum entires 5311 Direct unobligated balance, start of year ($8,870) ($12,438) $0 5314 Mandatory unobligated balance, start of year ($8,870) ($12,438) $0 5321 Direct unobligated balance, end of year ($12,438) $0 $0 5324 Mandatory unobligated balance, end of year ($12,438) $0 $0 5331 Direct obligated balance, start of year $15,275 $18,719 $0 5334 Mandatory obligated balance, start of year $15,275 $18,719 $0 5341 Direct obligated balance, end of year $18,719 $0 $0 5344 Mandatory obligated balance, end of year $18,719 $0 $0 152 Telecommunications Relay Service Fund Exhibit As part of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 Congress amended the Communications Act of 1934 (Act) to direct the Commission "to ensure that interstate and intrastate telecommunications relay services (TRS) are available, to the extent possible and in the most efficient manner, to hearing and speech-impaired individuals in the United States." Section 225 of the Act also directs the Commission to prescribe regulations that "generally provide that costs caused by interstate telecommunications relay services shall be recovered from all subscribers for every interstate service and costs caused by intrastate telecommunications relay service shall be recovered from the intrastate jurisdiction." The shared-funding mechanism requires providers of interstate telecommunications services to contribute to a fund that reimburses TRS providers for the cost of providing interstate TRS. All telecommunications service providers and certain other providers of telecommunications contribute to the TRS Fund based on a percentage of their end-user telecommunications revenues. These companies include, but are not limited to, wireline phone companies, wireless phone companies, paging service companies and certain Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers. Program and Financing (in millions of dollars) 2022 Actual 2023 Est. 2024 Est. Obligation by program activity: 0001 Telecommunications relay services $1,230 $1,380 $1,380 0002 Program support $22 $20 $20 0900 Total new obligations (object class 41.0) $1,252 $1,400 $1,400 Budgetary resources 1000 Unobligated balance carried forward, start of year $464 $508 $154 1021 Recoveries of prior year unpaid obligations $1 $5 $5 1033 Recoveries of prior year paid obligations $28 $0 $0 1050 Unobligated balance (total) $493 $513 $159 Budget authority: Mandatory 1201 Appropriation(special fund) - Receipt $1,267 $1,041 $1,255 1260 Appropriation, mandatory (total) $1,267 $1,041 $1,255 Spending authority from offsetting collections, mandatory: 1900 Budget authority (total) $1,267 $1,041 $1,255 1930 Total budgetary resources available $1,760 $1,554 $1,414 1941 Unexpired unobligated balance, end of year $508 $154 $14 Change in obligated balances: 3000 Unpaid obligated balance, start of year $32 $33 $114 3010 Obligation incurred, unexpired accounts $1,252 $1,400 $1,400 3020 Total outlays (gross) ($1,250) ($1,314) ($1,323) 3040 Recoveries of prior year obligations ($1) ($5) ($5) 3050 Unpaid obligated balance, end of year (net) $33 $114 $186 3100 Obligation balance, start of year $32 $33 $114 3200 Obligation balance, end of year $33 $114 $186 Budget authority and outlays net: 4090 Budget authority gross: $1,267 $1,041 $1,255 4100 Outlays from new mandatory authority $1,037 $1,041 $1,098 4101 Outlays from new mandatory balances $213 $273 $225 4110 Total outlays (net) $1,250 $1,314 $1,323 Offsets against gross budget authority and outlays 4160 Budget authority net (mandatory) $1,267 $1,041 $1,255 4170 Outlays net (mandatory) $1,222 $1,314 $1,323 4180 Budget authority net (total) $1,267 $1,041 $1,255 4190 Outlays net (total) $1,222 $1,314 $1,323 Unexpended balance memorandum entires 5311 Direct unobligated balance, start of year $464 $507 $0 5314 Mandatory unobligated balance, start of year $464 $507 $0 5321 Direct unobligated balance, end of year $507 $0 $0 5324 Mandatory unobligated balance, end of year $507 $0 $0 5331 Direct obligated balance, start of year $32 $33 $0 5334 Mandatory obligated balance, start of year $32 $33 $0 5341 Direct obligated balance, end of year $33 $0 $0 5344 Mandatory obligated balance, end of year $33 $0 $0 153 GAO – IG Act Audit List Good Accounting Obligation in Government Act Report In accordance with the Good Accounting Obligation in Government Act (GAO-IG Act), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission) provides the following report. The report describes the Commission’s actions on outstanding public recommendations of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Commission’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG), which have remained unimplemented for one year or more as of the date on which the annual budget justification is submitted. The first section of the report provides information on the status of implementing GAO public recommendations designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented. The second section of the report provides information on the status of implementing OIG’s recommendations for which the Commission has not completed final action. In accordance with the GAO-IG Act, both sections provide the required reporting elements for recommendations published not less than one year before the date on which the annual budget justification is submitted. The GAO-IG Act also requires agencies to include a statement describing the status of implementing public recommendations open less than one year. For the GAO and OIG recommendations meeting this parameter, as of January 1, 2022, the Commission is in the process of implementing those recommendations, awaiting closure of the recommendations by the GAO or OIG, or awaiting discussions with the GAO or OIG on further actions to be implemented, if any, to close the recommendations. The GAO-IG Act requires agencies to disclose discrepancies between its report and reports issued by the GAO and OIG. The Commission is not aware of any discrepancies between this report and public reports issued by the GAO relating to public recommendations designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented. Further, the Commission is not aware of any discrepancies between this report and the semiannual reports submitted by the OIG under Section 5 of the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.). FCC Report on Outstanding GAO and OIG Recommendations 1. GAO Recommendations • Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as “open” or “closed, unimplemented.” The reporting details are provided in Section 1. As required by the GAO-IG Act, the details include the implementation status of each public recommendation, to include a timeline for full implementation, as applicable; e.g., for several recommendations, the Commission believes it has completed final action and is awaiting GAO concurrence and closure of the recommendations. The Commission did not include recommendations that were over four years old that GAO and the FCC agreed to label as “closed, unimplemented” because GAO agreed to close those recommendations. 154 2. OIG Recommendations • Implementation Status of OIG Public Recommendations for which Final Action Has Not Been Completed. The reporting details are provided in Section 2. As required by the GAO-IG Act, the details include the implementation status of each public recommendation, to include a timeline for implementation, as applicable; e.g., for several recommendations, the Commission believes it has completed final action and is awaiting OIG concurrence and closure of the recommendations. 155 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report TELECOMMUNICATIONS Following the establishment of TRS's RELAY SERVICE: performance goals, the Chairman of the Recommendation has FCC Should Strengthen Its Federal Communications Commission been implemented and GAO-15-409 04/29/2015 2 Implementation is in progress Management of Program to should conduct a robust risk assessment submitted to GAO for Assist Persons with Hearing that can help FCC design a closure. or Speech Disabilities comprehensive internal-control system. To address control weaknesses and At this time the FCC has not related program-integrity risks we adopted a self-enforcing TELECOMMUNICATIONS: identified in Lifeline, the Chairman of mechanism and it should be noted Additional Action Needed to Expect to be Closed as GAO-17-538 05/30/2017 1 FCC should require Commissioners to that the current disbursement level Address Significant Risks in Not Implemented review and approve, as appropriate, is significantly lower than the FCC's Lifeline Program spending above the budget in a timely current budgeted amount for the manner. Lifeline Program. To address control weaknesses and related program-integrity risks we identified in The FCC has resumed approving TELECOMMUNICATIONS: Lifeline, the Chairman of FCC should compliance plans in limited Additional Action Needed to Expect to be Closed as GAO-17-538 05/30/2017 3 establish time frames to evaluate circumstances but at this time has Address Significant Risks in Not Implemented compliance plans and develop not established a time frame for FCC's Lifeline Program instructions with criteria for FCC this issue. reviewers how to evaluate these plans to meet Lifeline's program goals. To address our findings regarding the USF, the Chairman of FCC should take action to respond to USAC requests for guidance and address pending requests TELECOMMUNICATIONS: concerning USF contribution Additional Action Needed to Implementation is in progress GAO-17-538 05/30/2017 7 requirements to ensure the contribution FY 2024 Address Significant Risks in factor is based on complete information FCC's Lifeline Program and that USF pass-through charges are equitable. 156 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report The Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission should obtain feedback from tribal stakeholders BROADBAND INTERNET: and providers on the effectiveness of GAO-18-630 FCC’s Data Overstate Access 09/07/2018 3 FCC's 2012 statement to providers on FY 2023 Implementation is in progress on Tribal Lands how to fulfill their tribal engagement requirements to determine whether FCC needs to clarify the agency's tribal engagement statement. The Chairman of FCC should collect TRIBAL BROADBAND: data on the extent that tribal entities are FCC Should Undertake obtaining and accessing spectrum and GAO-19-75 11/14/2018 1 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Efforts to Better Promote use this information as Tribal Access to Spectrum FCC implements ongoing spectrum initiatives. The Chairman of FCC should analyze data to better understand the extent that TRIBAL BROADBAND: unused spectrum licenses exist over FCC Should Undertake tribal lands, such as by analyzing the GAO-19-75 11/14/2018 2 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Efforts to Better Promote data for a sample of tribal lands, and as Tribal Access to Spectrum appropriate use this information to inform its oversight of the secondary market. The Chairman of FCC should make information on spectrum-license holders TRIBAL BROADBAND: more accessible and easier to understand FCC Should Undertake GAO-19-75 11/14/2018 3 for interested parties, including tribal FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Efforts to Better Promote entities, to promote their ability to Tribal Access to Spectrum purchase or lease spectrum licenses from other providers. 157 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report The Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission should determine and execute a methodology WIRELESS INTERNET: for collecting and analyzing data—such FCC Should Assess Making as conducting a new pilot program GAO-19-564 Off-School-Premises Access 07/29/2019 1 regarding off-premises wireless access FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Eligible for Additional or analyzing other data—to assess the Federal support potential benefits, costs, and challenges of making off-premises wireless access eligible for E-rate program support, and publish the results of this analysis. INFORMATION SECURITY: FCC Improved There are 8 remaining open Its Electronic recommendations. In addition, there is GAO-19-247SU Comment System, but Needs 09/26/2019 multiple one recommendation that has been FY 2025 Implementation is in progress to implemented and submitted to GAO for Remedy Additional Control closure. Weaknesses The Chairman of FCC should ensure that FCC’s Office of Managing Director TELECOMMUNICATIONS: follows the leading practices in GAO’s FCC Should Take Additional fraud risk framework related to a Action to Manage Fraud Risks GAO-20-27 11/18/2019 1 dedicated entity’s management of its FY 2023 Implementation is in progress in Its Program to Support antifraud activities, such as serving as Broadband Service in High- Cost Areas the repository of knowledge on fraud risks and coordinating antifraud initiatives. 158 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report TELECOMMUNICATIONS: The Chairman of FCC should plan FCC Should Take Additional regular fraud-risk assessments tailored Action to Manage Fraud Risks to the high-cost program and assess GAO-20-27 11/18/2019 2 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress in Its Program to Support these risks to determine the program’s Broadband Service in High- fraud risk profile, as provided in GAO’s Cost Areas fraud risk framework. The Chairman of FCC should design TELECOMMUNICATIONS: and implement an antifraud strategy for FCC Should Take Additional the high-cost program with specific Action to Manage Fraud Risks control activities, based upon the results GAO-20-27 11/18/2019 3 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress in Its Program to Support of fraud-risk assessments and a Broadband Service in High- corresponding fraud risk profile, as Cost Areas provided in GAO’s fraud risk framework. TELECOMMUNICATIONS: FCC Should Take Additional The Chairman of FCC should assess the Action to Manage Fraud Risks model-based support mechanism to GAO-20-27 11/18/2019 4 FY 2028 Implementation is in progress in Its Program to Support determine the extent to which it Broadband Service in High- produces reliable cost estimates. Cost Areas TELECOMMUNICATIONS: The Chairman of FCC should consider FCC Should Take Additional whether to make use of the model-based Action to Manage Fraud Risks GAO-20-27 11/18/2019 5 support mechanism mandatory FY 2028 Implementation is in progress in Its Program to Support depending on the results of the Broadband Service in High- Cost Areas assessment. 159 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report The Chairman of FCC should develop EMERGENCY ALERTING: specific, measurable goals and Agencies Need to Address performance measures for its efforts to GAO-20-294 Pending Applications and 02/06/2020 1 monitor the performance of new WEA FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Monitor Industry Progress on capabilities, such as enhanced System Improvements geotargeting and expanded alert message length. The Chairman of FCC should develop, in coordination with NTIA and other 5G DEPLOYMENT: relevant stakeholders, specific and FCC Needs Comprehensive GAO-20-468 06/29/2020 1 measurable performance goals—with FY 2025 Implementation is in progress Strategic Planning to Guide related strategies and measures—to Its Efforts manage spectrum demands associated with 5G deployment. The Chairman of FCC should develop 5G DEPLOYMENT: specific and measurable performance FCC Needs Comprehensive goals—with related strategies and GAO-20-468 06/29/2020 2 FY 2025 Implementation is in progress Strategic Planning to Guide measures—to determine the effects 5G Its Efforts deployment and any mitigating actions may have on the digital divide. 160 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report The Chairman of FCC should direct and coordinate with the Chief Executive Officer of USAC to comprehensively assess fraud risks to the E-rate program, including implementing their respective TELECOMMUNICATIONS: plans for developing periodic fraud risk FCC Should Take Action to assessments, examining the suitability GAO-20-606 Better Manage Persistent 09/16/2020 1 of existing fraud controls, and compiling FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Fraud Risks in the Schools fraud risk profiles following the and Libraries Program timelines described in this report. The assessments should be informed by the key fraud risks identified in this report from closed court cases, prior risk assessments, and OIG reports, among other sources. The Chairman of FCC should ensure that FCC and USAC follow the leading TELECOMMUNICATIONS: practices in GAO’s Fraud Risk Recommendation has FCC Should Take Action to Framework when designing and been implemented and GAO-20-606 Better Manage Persistent 09/16/2020 2 Implementation is in progress implementing data-analytics activities to submitted to GAO for Fraud Risks in the Schools prevent and detect fraud as part of their closure. and Libraries Program respective antifraud strategies for the E- rate program. The Chairman of FCC should direct the TELECOMMUNICATIONS: Chief Executive Officer of USAC to Recommendation has FCC Should Take Action to clearly define and fully document the been implemented and GAO-20-606 Better Manage Persistent 09/16/2020 3 data fields in all relevant E-rate program Implementation is in progress submitted to GAO for Fraud Risks in the Schools computer systems to help improve closure. and Libraries Program FCC’s ability to understand and use data to manage fraud risks. 161 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report TELECOMMUNICATIONS: FCC Should Enhance The Chairman of FCC should revise the Performance Goals and GAO-21-24 10/30/2020 1 high-cost performance goals so that they FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Measures for Its Program to are measurable and quantifiable. Support Broadband Service in High-Cost Areas The Chairman of FCC should ensure TELECOMMUNICATIONS: high-cost performance measures align FCC Should Enhance with key attributes of successful Performance Goals and GAO-21-24 10/30/2020 2 performance measures, including FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Measures for Its Program to ensuring that measures clearly link with Support Broadband Service performance goals and have specified in High-Cost Areas targets. The Chairman of FCC should ensure the TELECOMMUNICATIONS: high-cost performance measure for the FCC Should Enhance goal of minimizing the universal service Performance Goals and GAO-21-24 10/30/2020 3 contribution burden on consumers and FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Measures for Its Program to businesses takes into account user-fee Support Broadband Service leading practices, such as equity and in High-Cost Areas sustainability considerations. The Chairman of FCC should publicly TELECOMMUNICATIONS: and periodically report on the progress it FCC Should Enhance has made for its high-cost program’s Performance Goals and performance goals, for example, by GAO-21-24 10/30/2020 4 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Measures for Its Program to including relevant performance Support Broadband Service information in its Annual Broadband in High-Cost Areas Deployment Report or the USF Monitoring Report. 162 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report The Chairman of FCC should develop TELECOMMUNICATIONS: and implement a plan to educate eligible FCC Has Implemented the consumers about the Lifeline program GAO-21-235 Lifeline National Verifier but 1/28/2021 1 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress and Verifier requirements that aligns Should Improve Consumer with key practices for consumer Awareness and Experience education planning. TELECOMMUNICATIONS: The Chairman of FCC should identify FCC Has Implemented the and use performance measures to track GAO-21-235 Lifeline National Verifier but 1/28/2021 3 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress the Verifier’s progress in delivering Should Improve Consumer value to consumers. Awareness and Experience The Chairman of FCC should ensure TELECOMMUNICATIONS: that it has quality information on FCC Has Implemented the consumers’ experience with the GAO-21-235 Lifeline National Verifier but 1/28/2021 4 Verifier’s manual review process, and FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Should Improve Consumer should use that information to improve Awareness and Experience the consumer experience to meet the Verifier’s goals. The Chairman of FCC should ensure that the Verifier’s online application and TELECOMMUNICATIONS: support website align with FCC Has Implemented the characteristics for leading federal GAO-21-235 Lifeline National Verifier but 1/28/2021 5 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress website design, including that they are Should Improve Consumer accurate, clear, understandable, easy to Awareness and Experience use, and contain a mechanism for users to provide feedback. 163 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report The Chair of FCC should enhance the transparency and accountability of TELECOMMUNICATIONS FCC’s operations by publicly reporting FCC Assisted in Hurricane GAO 21-297 on the actions and findings of its Maria Network Restoration, 06/01/2021 2 Hurricane Recovery Task Force and FY 2023 Implementation is in progress but a Clarified Disaster determine if any changes in policy are Response Role and Enhanced needed to ensure FCC has transparent Communication Are Needed operations for any future disaster-related task forces. We are recommending that the Chair of FCC solicit input from stakeholders and GAO-21-494 BROADBAND conduct analysis of small businesses 07/08/2021 GAO-21-494 FCC Should Analyze Small 1 broadband speed needs and incorporate FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Business Speed Needs the results of this analysis into its determination of the benchmark for broadband. The Chair of FCC should establish SPECTRUM clearly defined and agreed-upon Recommendation has MANAGEMENT Agencies processes for making decisions on Should Strengthen been completed and the 07/19/2021 spectrum-management activities that GAO-21-474 Collaborative Mechanisms 1 FCC is assembling Implementation is in progress involve other agencies, particularly and Processes to Address documents to submit to when consensus cannot be reached, in Potential Interference the GAO. consultation with NTIA and—as appropriate—State. SPECTRUM The Chair of FCC should clarify and MANAGEMENT Agencies further identify shared goals or Recommendation has Should Strengthen outcomes for spectrum-management been completed and the 07/19/2021 GAO-21-474 Collaborative Mechanisms 2 activities that involve collaboration and FCC is assembling Implementation is in progress and Processes to Address ways to monitor and track progress, in documents to submit to Potential Interference consultation with NTIA and—as the GAO. appropriate—State. 164 Section 1 - Implementation Status of GAO Public Recommendations Designated by the GAO as Open or Closed, Unimplemented Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date GAO Implementation Not to Implement Report SPECTRUM The Chair of FCC should request that MANAGEMENT Agencies State initiate a review of the General Should Strengthen 07/19/2021 Guidance Document—in consultation GAO-21-474 Collaborative Mechanisms 4 with FCC, NTIA, and other relevant FY 2024 Implementation is in progress and Processes to Address participants—and update and develop a Potential Interference means to continually monitor and update this document. The Chair of FCC should establish procedures to help guide the design SPECTRUM (including selection of acceptable MANAGEMENT Agencies assumptions and methodologies) of Should Strengthen 07/19/2021 spectrum-sharing and potential- GAO-21-474 Collaborative Mechanisms 5 FY 2025 Implementation is in progress and Processes to Address interference studies intended as U.S. Potential Interference contributions to WRC technical meetings, in consultation with NTIA, State, and other federal participants of the U.S. technical preparatory process. FEDERAL RULEMAKING The Chair of FCC should fully describe Selected Agencies Should available public comment data, GAO-21- Fully Describe Public 09/23/2021 1 including what data elements mean and FY 2023 Implementation is in progress 103181 Comment Data and Their any limitations, to external users of the Limitations data. 165 Section 2 - Implementation Status of OIG Public Recommendations for which Final Action Has Not Been Completed Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date OIG Implementation Not to Implement Report The FCC’s Managing Director, CIO and Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau should perform a comprehensive 12-AUD-12-20 FY 2012 A-130 Audit 03/12/2014 4.1 review of current DIRS processes to FY 2024 Implementation is in progress determine the appropriate placement of DIRS maintenance responsibilities within the FCC. WCB should develop and implement a plan that ensures the closure of pending 13-AUD-12-29 FY 2014 WCB Audit 07/29/2015 4.1 appeals in a timely manner and FY 2023 Implementation is in progress prioritizes the resolution of appeals filed 2010 and earlier. Require that USAC obtain written statements from state commissions and Audit of National Lifeline ETCs to confirm that their staff and FY 2023 15-AUD-10-09 Accountability Database 03/26/2018 2.2 Implementation is in progress agents who have NLAD access rights (NLAD) have successfully completed background investigations. Require that USAC obtain written statements from state commissions, contractors, and ETCs confirming that Audit of National Lifeline their staff and agents who are granted 15-AUD-10-09 Accountability Database 03/26/2018 2.4 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress access rights for NLAD have completed (NLAD) appropriate training to reduce the possibility that PII will be accessed, used, or disclosed inappropriately. Modify the PQA assessment procedures Recommendation has been implemented and 19-AUD-02-01 FY 2018 IPERIA Audit 06/03/2019 4 to target the USF-HC Program rules and Implementation is in progress submitted to the OIG for significant risks of improper payments. closure. 166 Section 2 - Implementation Status of OIG Public Recommendations for which Final Action Has Not Been Completed Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date OIG Implementation Not to Implement Report Develop policies and procedures that (a) acknowledge the interdependent relationships between FCC, the TRS Fund Administrator, and TRS providers; Recommendation has (b) address the responsibilities of each been implemented and 20-AUD-01-01 FY 2019 IPERIA Audit 06/15/2020 12 party to manage risks of improper Implementation is in progress submitted to the OIG for payments; and (c) describe closure. methodologies used to obtain assurance that each party manages its risks of improper payments appropriately and as intended. Ensure that as technical and operational issues arise during the TRS Fund Administrator DATA Act implementation, the TRS Fund FY 2017 DATA Act Administrator, in conjunction with the 17-AUD-08-04 11/07/2017 2 FY2023 Implementation is in progress Performance Audit FCC, coordinate with OMB and Treasury to work through any issues in real time. The FCC should document all significant issues encountered that required OMB and Treasury involvement. 167 Section 2 - Implementation Status of OIG Public Recommendations for which Final Action Has Not Been Completed Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date OIG Implementation Not to Implement Report Continue to coordinate with the TRS Fund administrator to develop a DATA Act project plan. The TRS Fund project plan should include an expected timeline and steps to implement necessary changes to systems and business FY 2019 DATA Act processes to capture, link, reconcile, and 19-AUD-08-05 11/08/2019 2 FY 2023 Implementation is in progress Performance Audit report on award-level financial and spending information. The TRS Fund Administrator, in coordination with the FCC, should develop and execute a project plan that conforms with Steps 1 through 8 of the DATA Act Implementation Playbook (Version 2.0). Develop and implement FCC’s DQP policies and procedures for updating the DQP in accordance with the applicable guidance. Policies and procedures should Recommendation has address the timeframe in updating the FY 2021 DATA Act been implemented and 21-AUD-08-06 11/08/2021 3 DQP due to changes in the FCC’s Implementation is in progress Performance Audit submitted to the OIG for processes, including component closure. processes, and new or revised guidance from OMB, the Department of the Treasury (Treasury), or other authoritative sources. 168 Section 2 - Implementation Status of OIG Public Recommendations for which Final Action Has Not Been Completed Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date OIG Implementation Not to Implement Report Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure FCC communicates Recommendation has new guidance to its components. This can FY 2021 DATA Act been implemented and 21-AUD-08-06 11/08/2021 4 include holding regular meetings with the Implementation is in progress Performance Audit submitted to the OIG for components to ensure all new guidance is closure. communicated and interpreted consistently across the FCC entity. Develop and implement oversight Recommendation has FY 2021 DATA Act policies and procedures to ensure been implemented and 21-AUD-08-06 11/08/2021 5 Implementation is in progress Performance Audit component entities report financial submitted to the OIG for assistance awards timely. closure. Coordinate with USAC management to develop and implement processes for obtaining all required data elements from FY 2021 DATA Act awardees prior to issuing an award. This 21-AUD-08-06 11/08/2021 7 FY2023 Implementation is in progress Performance Audit may include updating or creating program forms to include all required data elements needed for FABS submission. Develop and implement oversight policies and procedures for monitoring Recommendation has FY 2021 DATA Act data reported by component entities to been implemented and 21-AUD-08-06 11/08/2021 8 Implementation is in progress Performance Audit ensure that all DATA Act information is submitted to the OIG for being reported timely, accurately, and closure. completely. 169 Section 2 - Implementation Status of OIG Public Recommendations for which Final Action Has Not Been Completed Rec. Report Issued No. in Timeline for Full Justification for Decision Report Title Recommendation Number Date OIG Implementation Not to Implement Report The annual FISMA evaluation report is intended to improve the effectiveness of the FCC’s information security program controls in the areas of Risk FY 2016-2021 Federal FYs 2016-2021 Management, Configuration Information FISMA Management, Identity and Access Security Modernization Act 12/21/2021 multiple FY 2023 Implementation is in progress EVALUATION Management, and Information Security of Reports Continuous Monitoring. As of 12/31/22, 2014 (FISMA) Evaluation total FY 2016-2021 FISMA recommendations that are unimplemented for one year or more is eight recommendations. 170 Response to Congressional Inquiries Concerning GAO Recommendation 171 172