Interview on the John Fredericks Network
- drichter28
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
A note from Jim Kail
March 9, 2026
All:
As planned, while I was in D.C. last week, along with Quardricos and radio show host, John Fredericks, we had a productive meeting with Chairman Carr and his staff. The Chairman was not only receptive to our ideas, but he gave a clear indication that he was aware of the SCC’s Delete, Delete, Delete comments, and other filings submitted on the record. Additionally, Quardricos and I had a good meeting with Marcus Maher, who is Commissioner Trusty’s Senior Policy Advisor, and we also met with staffers from the offices of Senators Cruz (R-TX) and Fischer (R-NE), and Congressman McGuire (R-VA). Listed below are among the issues discussed during the various meetings:
The importance of the USF program, and the fact that the small carriers rely on predictable and stable USF support to build and maintain infrastructure and sustain operations.
The need to remove unnecessary or duplicative regulatory burdens that disproportionately impact small carriers, including the Performance Measurement testing and the broadband nutrition labels.
The need to broaden the USF contribution base so that all users of the network contribute to the fund in order to reduce the financial burden placed on the end-user.
Concerns with the costly and inefficient USAC audits, and the need for more accountability and transparency with respect to USAC in general.
Concerns with the Lifeline program.
Concerns regarding various aspects of the BEAD Program.
During the meetings, we also expressed optimism regarding improved communication between policymakers and the telecommunications sector, and the improved direction of the FCC under Chairman Carr’s leadership. Furthermore, we reiterated our willingness and desire to continue to serve as a resource to the FCC and congressional offices on rural connectivity issues. A more detailed summary of the outcome of the meetings will be included in Lobbyit’s March Report.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like to discuss the outcome of the meetings in more detail, please let me know.
For your information, I will be back in D.C. early next week, seeking additional opportunities to further our cause.
Have a good rest of the week,
Jim
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