FCC OKs Domestic Violence, Tribal E-Rate NPRMs

FCC commissioners moved to assist survivors of domestic violence by approving an NPRM on access to affordable communications services, during the agency's open meeting Thursday (see 2301260050). lt also approved an item seeking comment on ways to further participation among tribal libraries in the E-rate program.

Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said the wireless industry will "join with the National Domestic Violence Hotline to launch a partnership to support survivors." The carriers involved will "set up systems so that when survivors call to leave a family plan and set up a new line that incoming call will be received by someone who will offer support and resources from those who work with survivors of domestic abuse."

The item, which was directed by the Safe Connections Act, seeks comment on implementing the line separation requirement, how providers should treat consumer-facing call logs, establishing a hotline database, and how to address the Lifeline or affordable connectivity program enrollment processes for survivors. The Safe Connections Act "takes into account the sense of urgency for a person or family who is actively fleeing domestic violence," said My Sister's Place Deputy Director Toshira Monroe. Wireline Bureau Chief Trent Harkrader told reporters the main change to the final item was a question seeking comment on whether to use Lifeline or ACP to assist survivors.

It's "only right that we meet these survivors where they are and ensure that they both have access to a communications lifeline, and that their use of communications resources will not place themselves or others in danger from their abusers," said Commissioner Geoffrey Starks: "Once these rules are adopted, those in dangerous situations will be able to connect with services such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline and local domestic violence shelters to get help." Ensuring survivors have access to Lifeline or ACP will "keep survivors connected with those support systems and resources as they get back on their feet," Monroe said.

Commissioners approved an NPRM seeking comment on proposed changes to the E-rate program to give tribal libraries an easier pathway to apply for support (see 2302140054). Commissioners earlier approved a pilot program aimed at increasing participation. "We want to make sure every tribal library knows about the E-rate program," Rosenworcel said, and tribal communities "should not be the last to benefit from the opportunities of the digital age." Harkrader told reporters there were no major changes made from the draft item.

Commissioner Brendan Carr said he looks forward to reviewing the record on the item and identifying ways to "simplify application procedures." Starks commented that broadband deployment in communities with "dual-functioning libraries" is low and few tribal libraries have applied for E-rate support "due to the complexity of the application process." Starks said he hopes the commission moves quickly on the issue. "Unnecessary bureaucratic overhead is an obstacle to effective government," added Commissioner Nathan Simington in support of the NPRM. The item "looks at how we can better streamline the E-rate program" and will look at the "unique situations of tribal governments," Simington said.

Meeting Notebook

Asked about DirecTV's dropping Newsmax, which has been subject of substantial conservative lawmaker ire (see 2302010032), Carr told reporters he "want[ed] to keep my powder dry" in case a complaint is lodged with the agency alleging violation of its discrimination rules.