FAQs
Section 1000
The most recent published survey was released on December 15, 2023. Public Notice (DA 23-1172) states that each ETC, including competitive ETCs providing fixed voice services, must certify in the FCC Form 481 that the pricing of its basic residential voice services is no more than $53.31 (see paragraph 2). The FCC released a Public Notice (DA 17-346) on April 11, 2017 setting the rate comparability benchmarks for carriers operating in Alaska at $49.51.
In the December 2014 Connect America Fund Order (FCC 14-190), paragraphs 155-157, the FCC directed USAC to gather additional information when ETCs fail to make the reasonable comparability certification in their annual reports and to transmit that information to the FCC. The FCC indicated that an ETC may present factual evidence explaining the unique circumstances that preclude it from offering service at a rate meeting the requisite benchmark.
Providers whose rates are not in compliance with the reasonable comparability benchmark for fixed voice service should submit to USAC (1) proof that their rates are consistent with any applicable state requirements, and (2) an explanation of the specific costs that a provider believes justify retail rates above the reasonable comparability benchmark. USAC will provide this information to the FCC, which will determine what action, if any, should be taken regarding the non-compliance.
In a December 2014 Order (FCC 14-190), paragraphs 119-123, the FCC created Section 54.313(a)(12) which requires recipients of High Cost program and/or Connect America Fund support that are subject to broadband performance obligations to submit a broadband reasonable comparability rate certification with their annual Section 54.313 report (FCC Form 481). This requirement is now in effect beginning with the FCC Form 481 to be filed in 2016 (due July 1, 2016), addressing performance during 2015, and annually thereafter. For additional detail on the broadband rate comparability benchmark, please review DA 17-167.
The explanation is optional but can be provided if the carrier wants to elaborate on its compliance.