Media Contact: 
Mark Wigfield, (202) 418-0253
mark.wigfield@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC TAKES FINAL STEPS FOR NEXT PHASE OF RURAL 
BROADBAND EXPANSION 
Innovative Connect America Fund Phase II Auction to Launch in July
 
WASHINGTON, January 30, 2018—The Federal Communications Commission today took 
the final actions required to launch its innovative Connect America Fund Phase II auction, 
which will provide up to nearly $2 billion over the next decade to expand fixed, high-speed 
Internet service in unserved rural areas.
In a Public Notice adopted today, the FCC scheduled the auction to begin on July 24, set a 
March 30 deadline for applications to participate, and set out detailed procedures for the 
auction.  The FCC also adopted an Order on Reconsideration resolving all pending challenges 
to earlier FCC auction implementation decisions.
Nearly 1 million homes and businesses nationwide are in unserved rural areas where providers 
are eligible for support from the auction.  Qualified providers will compete for support of up to 
$1.98 billion over the next decade to offer voice and broadband service in unserved areas 
where, absent subsidies, there is no business case for expanding or providing service.
By harnessing market forces, the auction is designed to provide consumers with high-quality, 
broadband service in an efficient, cost-effective way. The auction is the first reverse multiple-
round auction to provide ongoing Connect America Fund support for fixed broadband and 
voice service in high-cost rural areas.
The auction will also provide opportunities for new entrants, regardless of technology, 
including rural telco, fixed wireless, satellite, cable, price cap, and electric utility broadband 
providers.  To ensure successful participation by new entrants, the Public Notice details the 
FCC’s outreach and education plans for potential bidders, including online tutorials, 
workshops, webinars, and a mock auction.
Tutorials and other information will be available here, once posted: 
https://www.fcc.gov/connect-america-fund-phase-ii-auction
Link to map of eligible areas: https://www.fcc.gov/reports-research/maps/caf2-auction-final-
areas/
Action by the Commission January 30, 2018 by Order on Reconsideration (FCC 18-5). 
Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, Carr and Rosenworcel approving.  Commissioner 
O’Rielly approving in part and concurring in part.  Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, 
O’Rielly, Carr and Rosenworcel issuing separate statements.
WC Docket No. 10-90; WC Docket No. 14-58; WC Docket No. 14-259; AU Docket No. 17-
182
Action by the Commission January 30, 2018 by Public Notice (FCC 18-6). Chairman Pai, 
Commissioners O’Rielly, Carr and Rosenworcel approving.  Commissioner Clyburn approving 
in part and concurring in part.  Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, O’Rielly, Carr and 
Rosenworcel issuing separate statements.
AU Docket No. 17-182; WC Docket No. 10-90
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This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order 
constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).