On January 4, 2022, the FCC released an Order addressing seven requests for waiver and review of the $400 maximum reasonable support amount for connected devices reimbursed through the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. The Commission granted five of the seven petitions who demonstrated special circumstances that justify a waiver of the $400 reasonable support amount cap for connected devices and denied the other two who failed to present special circumstances to justify a waiver.
In the Order, the FCC noted that, “…we find that five of the petitioners have demonstrated special circumstances that justify a waiver of the $400 reasonable support amount cap for connected devices in order to fully meet the remote learning needs of students, school staff and library patrons with disabilities, and grant these requests accordingly. We also deny two requests because we find that the petitioners failed to present special circumstances to justify a waiver of the Commission’s rules for the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program…”
Additionally, the FCC directed USAC to complete its review of the seven funding requests consistent with the Order and to recommend a commitment, denial, or revised decision based on a complete review and analysis no later than 60 calendar days.
The FCC Order can be viewed here.
