Federal Communications Commission FCC 17-129 STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER BRENDAN CARR Re: Connect America Fund, WC Docket No. 10-90 Even before the first hurricane struck the United States this year, the FCC’s dedicated staff have been focused on doing everything in their power to safeguard the communications networks in the areas impacted by these devastating storms. The agency has deployed teams, issued emergency authorizations, waived rules, and helped facilitate access to fuel and other resources. I am grateful that throughout Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, the agency has maintained its focus on efforts to repair and restore communications networks. Today’s Order is no exception. We take immediate action to make nearly $77 million in funds available to help get the communications networks in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands back up and running after the devastation from Hurricane Maria. I am glad that the Chairman has moved quickly and brought this item up for a vote. And I want to acknowledge the staff in the FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau for their diligent work on this item