US grants broadband licenses to tribes in Arizona, New Mexico

SANTA FE, N.M. – The Federal Communications Commission has granted broadcast licenses ideal for high-speed wireless internet to rural tribal governments in New Mexico, Arizona and elsewhere.

The 2.5 GHz licenses have been granted to 154 Native American communities so far, the commission announced in a statement Friday. “Few communities face the digital connectivity challenges faced by rural tribes. By prioritizing tribal access to this mid-band spectrum, we are ensuring that tribes can quickly access spectrum to connect their schools, homes, hospitals and businesses,” FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said.

Around 400 applications were received in the tribal priority window after it was extended because of the coronavirus pandemic. Some were granted temporary authority, including the Navajo Nation in the

Four Corners region and Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico.

More licenses could be awarded as the commission’s staff continues to review and process all the applications that were filed before the deadline.

Tribes fought to be first in line to receive the latest batch of license for 2.5 GHz spectrum wireless broadcast.

Telemedicine has become more important across the Navajo Nation, which spans parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The tribe has been hit hard by the pandemic with disproportionately high numbers of infections and deaths.

Connectivity for remote learning also has been a big issue for tribes.