Press Release
Chairwoman Rosenworcel and commissioners Carr, Starks, Simington, and Gomez approved the new rules, which the FCC’s announcement said would “extend the reach of wireless networks to remote areas.”
The FCC yesterday adopted final rules to establish a new regulatory framework to revolutionize connectivity across the United States. The world’s first supplemental coverage from space (SCS) framework leverages cutting-edge satellite technology to extend the reach of wireless networks to remote areas. This will enable collaborations between wireless carriers and satellite operators to make sure smartphone users stay connected even in areas where there is no terrestrial mobile service.
Through today’s action, the FCC takes the first step in establishing clear and transparent processes to support these services. Connecting consumers to essential wireless services where traditional mobile services are not available can be lifesaving in remote locations and can open up innovative opportunities for consumers and businesses. This action also builds on the Commission’s efforts to promote innovative and collaborative use of radio spectrum resources, particularly as communications systems converge towards a single network future.
The Commission today adopted the Report and Order. The supplemental coverage from space framework allows satellite operators collaborating with terrestrial service providers to seek FCC authorization to operate space stations on certain licensed, flexible-use spectrum currently allocated to wireless services, provided they satisfy certain licensing prerequisites—including having a spectrum lease from a terrestrial licensee within a specified geographic area. Once authorized, a satellite operator can then serve a wireless provider’s customers should they need connectivity outside of coverage areas. For example, supplemental coverage from space could enable service in the middle of the Chihuahuan Desert, Lake Michigan, Hawaii’s Hana Highway, the 100-Mile Wilderness, or the Uinta Mountains.
The rules also establish, on an interim basis, a requirement that terrestrial providers must route all SCS 911 calls to a Public Safety Answering Point using either location-based routing or an emergency call center. The Commission also adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to seek further comment on this and other critical public safety issues to ensure these services adequately meet consumers’ needs and expectations for critical services. The Further Notice also seeks comment on issues associated with protection of radio astronomy services.
