Spectrum

The FCC is exploring whether unlicensed spectrum can support a new class of direct-to-device satellite services.

At its August 6 Open Meeting, the Commission is tentatively scheduled to consider a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking covering more than 225 megahertz of spectrum currently available to unlicensed devices such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth equipment.

The proposal would add Earth-to-space allocations in the 902-to-928-megahertz, 2.4-gigahertz and 5.8-gigahertz bands. Transmissions would remain subject to existing part 15 technical limits for unlicensed devices, generally up to an effective isotropic radiated power, or EIRP, of 4 watts.

The Commission would also seek comment on whether to allow space-to-Earth operations in the 5.8-gigahertz band or other bands, how to prevent harmful interference to authorized services while limiting the impact on existing unlicensed devices, and what licensing framework should apply to the new satellite operations.

For consumers in areas without terrestrial coverage, the proceeding could eventually create additional connectivity options for everyday devices such as smartphones, laptops and IoT sensors.

USF

The Commission is also weighing a separate Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to begin a comprehensive review of how the Universal Service Fund is administered.

The draft centers on the Universal Service Administrative Company, or USAC, which administers the USF’s high-cost, Lifeline, E-Rate and Rural Health Care programs. It would examine USAC’s responsibilities, operating costs, internal processes and 20-member board of directors, and would seek comment on reducing administrative costs, improving transparency and oversight, and requiring USAC to publicly report turnaround times or other measures of how quickly it responds.

The FCC seeks comment on shrinking USAC’s board from 20 to 13 members and capping its budget. USAC reported approximately $266.6 million in operating expenses in 2025.

The proposal would also address audits and improper payments. Among other changes, it would codify USAC’s authority to audit beneficiaries that are not carriers, such as schools, libraries and health care providers, and its ability to calculate recoveries by extrapolating from a statistically valid representative sample of disbursements. The draft proposes defining that sample using a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error.

For participants in USF-supported programs, the proceeding could affect audit procedures and how recoveries are calculated. The draft focuses on USAC’s administration and oversight of the fund, though it also seeks comment on whether certain functions, including the billing and collection of contributions, should instead be handled by the Commission.

California

The California Public Utilities Commission has approved up to $74.1 million in California Advanced Services Fund grants for six broadband infrastructure projects across seven counties. The projects are expected to bring fiber-optic service to 1,788 previously unserved locations.

Surfnet Communications is slated to receive up to $33.2 million for two projects serving 1,293 locations in Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties. WiConduit and GigabitNow will receive up to $32.4 million for three Sonoma County projects serving 341 locations. Hankins Information Technology will receive up to $8.5 million for its West Marin project, which will serve 154 locations in and around Bolinas, Nicasio, Point Reyes Station and Stinson Beach.

The CPUC said several projects will serve communities in or near high fire-threat areas, where more reliable broadband is intended to strengthen communications during emergencies. The awards also include affordable service options for qualifying low-income households expected to participate in the California LifeLine Home Broadband Pilot after project completion.

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