The March 2018 Map of the Month highlights the Utah Education and Telehealth Network’s 2017 Utah School Technology Study. The study was first conducted in 2015 and the two data sets can be compared to highlight the progress made by school districts over the past two years. Continue reading
February 2018 Map of the Month: FCC’s New National Broadband Map
On February 22, the Federal Communications Commission updated the National Broadband Map, replacing the original map that was released seven years ago by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The current map also has the ability to overlay satellite imagery. The map is currently using data collected in December 2016 based on Form 477 filings that broadband providers must make with the FCC. Continue reading
BDAC Holds Fourth Meeting
The Federal Communications Commission’s Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee (BDAC) held its fourth meeting January 23rd and 24th. The working groups/subcommittees presented reports and recommendation for best practice and language on updated broadband-related code. Continue reading
FirstNet Testing Begins in Virginia
Public Officials in Richmond, Virginia are testing the FirstNet’s public safety wireless network, as of last month. Richmond and Fairfax counties are the first localities in Virginia that will be using the network. This move to use the network will hopefully prompt the system to be in full use by the end of 2018. Continue reading
FCC Repeals Net Neutrality
The FCC has just released the final Order in the Federal Register to eliminate Net Neutrality. The Repeal will take place on April 23rd with further changes will happen after that date. Continue reading
CAF Phase II Auction Applications Due
The FCC has taken final actions that are required to launch it’s innovative CAF Phase II auction to expand broadband in rural areas on July 24th. Applications are due on March 30th. Continue reading
US Ignite Smart Air App Kickstart
Utah Ignite has started a Smart Air App challenge that will kick off on March 1st, at 6pm. The kickoff of the initiative will take place at Silicon Slopes in Lehi, Utah. Continue reading
Executive Orders for Greater Rural Broadband Access
President Trump signed an executive order on January 8th, regarding increased access to broadband in rural America. The purpose of this order is to increase the access of broadband. Continue reading
Rural Development Announces Update to DLT Grant Program
Anne Hazlett, Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that there will be a regulation improvement for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant program. Continue reading
Rural Broadband Permitting Efficiency Act of 2018
Representative John Curtis introduced the Rural Broadband Permitting Efficiency Act of 2018 (HR 4824) on January 18th. The proposed legislation is aimed at helping streamline federal siting by allowing states to partner with federal agencies to decrease processing times. Continue reading