To make sure E-Rate is reaching students in Indian Country we need to know that the FCC is not still using junk data to track tribal applications.
Tom Udall
The Public Record
Tom Udall is an American politician and attorney who served as the junior United States Senator from New Mexico from 2009 to 2021. A member of the Democratic Party, Udall previously represented New Mexico's 3rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2009. Throughout his political career, he has focused on issues such as environmental protection, healthcare, and Native American rights. Udall has been an advocate for legislation addressing the challenges faced by the Navajo people, particularly regarding land ownership and economic development.
Among the many obstacles to closing the digital divide in Indian Country is the FCC's Eligible Telecommunications Carrier, or ETC designation.
We have heard today about the GAO's second report on partnerships and how less than 1 percent of the FCC's funding has gone to tribes.
When exactly will this Committee see accurate data from the E-Rate program about its work in tribal lands?
Mr. Webre, the FCC issued guidance in 2012 about tribal engagement. The GAO reports that that guidance is now stale.
It is time for a new authority for the Commission, a new direction, new authorities. It is time for a tribal broadband fund.
Eighty percent of those living on tribal lands in New Mexico do not have access to broadband.





