FCC Chair Seeks Faster Internet for Underserved Locations

Jessica Rosenworcel, chair of the Federal Communications Commission, recently disseminated an order to establish the Enhanced Alternative Connect America Cost Model, a program aimed at providing certain areas in the United States with internet service at speeds of at least 100/20 megabits per second.

A-CAM, the original version of the program, provides broadband carriers in remote areas with financial incentives to achieve metrics such as maintaining connection speeds and constructing more network infrastructure. Rosenworcel identified a need to bring A-CAM up to modern speed and reliability standards.

According to an FCC press release, Rosenworcel’s order would require A-CAM participants to reach the new 100/20 Mbps baseline to continue receiving subsidies and incremental increases for those in “expensive-to-serve areas.”

The enhanced program is meant to work alongside existing programs such as the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment.

Included with the order is a request for comment on the specifics of certain funding areas, the FCC said Friday.