FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Sanford D. Bishop U.S. House of Representatives 2407 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Bishop: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission' s ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know ifl can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, 0 ~ v. r~ Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Earl Blumenauer U.S . House of Representatives 1111 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Blumenauer: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, · o ~ v. ~~ Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Richard Blumenthal United States Senate 706 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Blumenthal: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could.have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFF ICE OF TH E C H A I RMAN The Honorable Cheri Bustos U.S . House of Representatives 1009 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Bustos: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 ' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September.21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable David Cicilline U.S. House of Representatives 2244 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Cicilline: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission' s statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 ' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. . Sincerely, v, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Emanuel Cleaver U.S. House of Representatives 2335 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Cleaver: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOi). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOi, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOi proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOi also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOi seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICAT IONS COMMISSION WASH INGTON OFF ICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable John Conyers U.S. House of Representatives 2426 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D:C. 20515 Dear Congressman Conyers: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission' s review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion . With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission' s evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know ifl can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, - V· Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Mark DeSaulnier U.S. House of Representatives 115 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman DeSaulnier: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOi proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOi seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON O F FICE OF T H E CHA I RMAN The Honorable Mike Doyle U.S. House of Representatives 239 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Doyle: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 ' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission' s ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, - v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Keith Ellison U.S. House of Representatives 2263 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Ellison: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission' s statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 ' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me kn.ow if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Anna G. Eshoo U.S. House of Representatives 241 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Eshoo: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOI. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, ~~ Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Al Franken United States Senate 309 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Franken: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate ·in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF T H E CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tulsi Gabbard U.S. House of Representatives 1433 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Gabbard: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7 .. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presel).ted by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Garamendi U.S. House of Representatives 2438 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Garamendi: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission' s evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIR MAN The Honorable Kirsten Gillibrand United States Senate 4 78 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Gillibrand: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission' s statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFF ICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Raul M. Grijalva U.S. House of Representatives 1511 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Grijalva: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOi). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOi, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOi proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOi also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOi seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission' s evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, ~ v. ~~ Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Colleen Hanabusa U.S. House of Representatives 422 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Hanabusa: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this imp()rtant proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Maggie Hassan United States Senate B85 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Hassan: . October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE O F THE C H AIRMAN The Honorable Alcee L. Hastings U.S. House of Representatives 2353 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 · Dear Congressman Hastings: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission' s review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Jvlbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Heidi Heitkamp United States Senate 110 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Heitkamp: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, -legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission' s ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Jared Huffman U.S. House of Representatives 1406 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Huffman: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission' s statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee · U.S. House of Representatives 2187 Rayburn Hou.se Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Jackson Lee: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, mi September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V· Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Rohit Khanna U.S. House of Representatives 513 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Khanna: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Lewis U.S . House of Representatives 343 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Lewis: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIR MAN The Honorable Edward J. Markey United States Senate · 25 5 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Markey: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission' s statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOI. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICAT IONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE C H AIRMAN The Honorable Betty McCollum U.S . House of Representatives 2256 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman McCollum: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission' s review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission' s ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the i·ssues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Jim McGovern U.S. House of Representatives 438 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman McGovern: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Gwen Moore U.S. House of Representatives 2252 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Moore: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WA S HINGTON OFFICE OF T HE C H AIRMAN The Honorable Seth vV. Moulton U.S. House of Representatives 1408 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Moulton: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission' s evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CH A I R M A N The Honorable Rick Nolan U.S. House of Representatives 2366 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Nolan: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOI. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIR MAN The Honorable Tom O'Halleran U.S. House of Representatives 126 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman O'Halleran: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommtmications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission'~ ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF T HE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Chellie Pingree U.S. House of Representatives 2162 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Pingree: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed ·and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due .on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Mark Pocan U.S. House of Representatives 1421 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Pocan: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOi) . Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOi, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOi proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOi also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOi seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. · . I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE C H A I RMAN The Honorable Jared Polis U.S. House of Representatives 1727 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Polis: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission' s statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current · speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 ' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. ~ ; incerely, · 0 ... U -~ v. I {A;\, 0 Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Brian Schatz United States Senate 722 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Schatz: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOi, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOi also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOi seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission' s evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues .and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Jose E. Serrano U.S. House of Representatives 2354 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Serrano: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOi). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOi, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOi proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOi also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOi seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, vt' v, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFF ICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Louise M. Slaughter U.S. House of Representatives 2469 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Slaughter: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF T HE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Darren Soto U.S. House of Representatives 1429 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Soto: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mo bile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CH •AIRMAN The Honorable .Mike Thompson U.S. Hotise of Representatives 231 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Thompson: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Paul Tonko U.S . House of Representatives 2463 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Tonko: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, tk Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Chris Van Hollen United States Senate B40C Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Van Hollen: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the \Vireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, V· Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tim Walz U.S. House of Representatives 2313 Rayburn House Office Building . Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Walz: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me k..11ow if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, v. Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFF ICE OF T HE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Peter Welch U.S. House of Representatives 2303 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D ~ c. 20515 Dear Congressman Welch: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission' s review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOi. The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension .could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. er Sincerely, 0 ... - vt-: V . I AA, Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFF ICE OF THE CHA I RMAN The Honorable Ron Wyden United States Senate 221 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Wyden: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice oflnquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical; legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706 ' s congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission's ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21 , 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 201 7. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, · o fl ....... · ~ V· I~" Ajit V. Pai FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF T HE CHAIRMAN The Honorable John Yarmuth U.S . House of Representatives 131 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Y armuth: October 24, 2017 Thank you for your letter regarding the Thirteenth Section 706 Report Notice of Inquiry (Section 706 NOI). Your views are very important and will be entered into the record of the proceeding and considered as part of the Commission's review. On August 8, 2017, the Commission adopted the Section 706 NOI, seeking public input on the most effective ways to complete the Commission's statutorily mandated task of determining whether advanced telecommunications capability is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion. With respect to claims that the Section 706 NOI proposes to lower the current speed benchmark of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25 Mbps/3 Mbps) for fixed broadband, the item clearly proposes to maintain the 25 Mbps/3 Mbps standard for fixed broadband. The NOI also seeks comment on whether we should consider modifying that benchmark, and also asks if there are additional benchmarks we should include, such as data allowances, latency, or consistency of service. In addition, the Section 706 NOI seeks comment on how the inquiry can include an evaluation of both fixed and mobile services, and on a number of alternative approaches for how to incorporate the availability of mobile services in the Commission's evaluation under the statutory standard. Moreover, while it is the policy of the Commission that extensions shall not be routinely granted, on September 5, 2017, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted an extension for filing comments and reply comments in response to the Section 706 NOL The Order found that an extension of the comment and reply comment deadline was appropriate in this case in order to allow interested parties additional time to analyze the technical, legal, and policy issues raised in this proceeding. However, given Section 706's congressionally mandated 180-day timeframe for completing the inquiry, a longer extension could have inhibited the Commission' s ability to fully consider the record and meet its statutory obligations. Comments were due on September 21, 2017 and reply comments were by October 6, 2017. I can assure you that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders in this important proceeding. I appreciate your interest in this matter. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Sincerely, Ajit V. Pai