Funding Scarce for Next-Generation 911

The future of next-generation, IP-enabled E911 is hampered by a lack of funding and momentum from both the public and private sectors, according to panel on the subject at the WCAI’s International Symposium last week covered by Wireless Week. David Furth of the FCC emphasized the importance of extending connectivity to unserved and underserved rural areas. “There are two regulatory issues that we’re going to be looking at. The first is to get basic connectivity out to the country because it affects 911 centers and first responders as much as it affects everyone else,” Furth said, adding that the FCC is examining how to configure rural broadband to that it will support the features needed for next-generation 911, both on the consumer side and the public safety side. Details.

WCAI Congratulates Jonathan Adelstein on Nomination as RUS Administrator

As expected, the White House on Friday announced President Obama's intent to nominate FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein to be the new Administrator of the Rural Utilities Service in the Department of Agriculture. WCAI applauds President Obama’s selection and congratulates Mr. Adelstein on the nomination. The nomination comes at a critical time, as RUS is putting together a program to distribute $2.5 billion in loans, loan guarantees, and grants as part of the economic stimulus plan. A strong advocate for increased broadband deployments in rural areas, Adelstein is the ideal candidate to lead RUS efforts to improve rural telecommunications and broadband. We at WCAI look forward to working with Mr. Adelstein to promote innovative wireless broadband services and achieve universal wireless broadband access in the United States.