FCC Tweaks Alaska Internet Fund Rules for Better 5G Connectivity
Published Date: 12/10/2025
Rule
Summary
The FCC is updating rules for the Alaska Connect Fund to make sure money is used wisely to bring faster 5G internet to people living and traveling in Alaska. These changes, effective January 9, 2026, clarify how the program works and better match its goals. Companies like GCI Communications will see some rule tweaks that help improve service and support in Alaska’s unique communities.
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Clear 5G / 4G Deployment Goals
Mobile providers must submit performance plans by September 1, 2026 and are expected to upgrade single-support areas to 5G-NR at 35/3 Mbps where technically and financially feasible by December 31, 2034, and to extend duplicate-support areas to 4G LTE at 5/1 Mbps by December 31, 2029. Performance plans are to be based on Broadband Data Collection (BDC) availability data as of December 31, 2024.
Delay and Limits on Ineligibility Enforcement
WTB will not determine a provider's ACF eligibility for Alaska Plan noncompliance until after the 12-month cure period ends on December 31, 2027; WTB may notify ineligibility by December 15, 2028, with reasonable extensions not to go beyond July 1, 2029. USAC recoveries for missed Alaska Plan commitments remain at 1.89 times per equivalent person, and WTB will reserve ACF ineligibility findings for providers with more than de minimis noncompliance (threshold to be determined by WTB).
ACF Support Extended Through 2034
The Alaska Connect Fund (ACF) will provide ongoing, certain support to mobile wireless providers who participated in the Alaska Plan and opt into the ACF through the end of 2034. The rule confirmed continuation of support for those providers and the ACF framework that runs through December 31, 2034.
Case-by-Case Lower-Tech Exceptions
The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) may approve lower-technology commitments than the ACF minimum on a case-by-case basis, but providers must demonstrate why 5G-NR at 35/3 Mbps (single-support) or 4G at 5/1 Mbps (duplicate-support) is not technically or financially feasible. If WTB approves a lower technology, the provider must annually certify, by census tract, the basis for that exception on FCC Form 481.
Untestable Areas Excluded From Support
Hex-9 areas that are permanently untestable are ineligible for ACF support, while areas that are only temporarily untestable remain eligible; any hex-9 with a Broadband Serviceable Location (BSL) is defined as accessible. Speed testing for eligibility will use outdoor/stationary datasets.
Eligible/Duplicate Areas Locked to 12/31/2024 Data
All ineligible areas (including permanently untestable hex-9s) and duplicate-support areas for the ACF will be determined and fixed using Broadband Data Collection availability data as of December 31, 2024; single-support areas may change over time and duplicate-support areas could become single-support after December 31, 2029.
Backhaul Capacity Considered in Plans
WTB will consider available middle-mile/backhaul capacity (fiber, microwave, satellite) when negotiating individualized performance plans, and may accept lesser commitments where justified, but the ACF will not adopt a blanket lower standard for microwave backhaul. WTB can consider backhaul limitations and middle-mile mapping data during negotiations.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20192, [WC Docket Nos. 25-208, 25-209; FCC 26-19; FR ID 370342] Reducing Barriers to Network Improvements and Service Changes, Accelerating Network Modernization
The FCC is making it easier and faster for phone and internet companies to upgrade old networks to new, faster technology. These changes affect companies that provide phone and internet services and will start on October 15, 2026. This update cuts red tape and helps bring better service to customers sooner, without extra costs slowing things down.
2026-20157, Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The FCC is asking the public and small businesses to help reduce paperwork by commenting on a new information collection plan. If you have fewer than 25 employees, your input is especially welcome! Comments are due by November 2, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to shape how the FCC collects info and possibly save time and money.
2026-20158, Information Collections Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and businesses to review and comment on some paperwork they collect to make sure it’s useful and not too much of a hassle. They want to reduce the burden, especially for small businesses, and are updating forms related to international telecom authorizations. Comments are due by November 30, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in and help shape the process!
2026-20039, Television Broadcasting Services Norwell, Massachusetts
The FCC is switching TV channel 36 to channel 10 for WWDP in Norwell, Massachusetts, so the station can keep broadcasting without interruptions. RNN Boston License Co., the station’s owner, asked for this change and will quickly apply to operate on the new channel. This update takes effect on September 30, 2026, ensuring viewers keep enjoying their favorite shows smoothly.
2026-20038, Television Broadcasting Services Savannah, Georgia
Georgia Public Broadcasting wants to switch its Savannah TV station WVAN-TV from VHF channel 8 to UHF channel 18 to improve signal quality and help viewers get better access to local programs. This change won’t cause interference or loss of service and aims to boost your TV experience. Comments on this proposal are open until October 30, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!
2026-20005, Renewal of the Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee
The FCC is renewing the Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee (CPAAC) for two more years because it helps protect consumers and improve access for people with disabilities. This committee advises on new communication technologies and their impact, making sure everyone benefits. No big budget changes were mentioned, so it’s business as usual with a focus on keeping consumer voices heard.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-22434, Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System
Starting June 5, 2028, mobile providers must send Wireless Emergency Alerts in English plus 13 other common U.S. languages and American Sign Language to keep everyone in the loop during emergencies. These alerts will include customizable details like location and time, making warnings clearer and more helpful. This change helps make sure everyone, no matter their language, gets important safety info fast—without extra costs for users.
Next: 2025-22438, Fixed and Moving Safety Zone; Vicinity of the M/V SAMPOGRACHT; Houston Ship Channel and Seabrook, TX
From December 6 to 23, 2025, the Coast Guard is setting up safety zones around the M/V SAMPOGRACHT in the Houston Ship Channel to keep people and boats safe during the transfer of big rubber tire cranes. Boats can’t enter these zones unless they get special permission. This temporary rule helps protect everyone and the environment without causing extra costs.