WELCOME
SPECTRUM BASED OPPORTUNITIES
Spectrum based communications require access to spectrum. Spectrum allocation and any rulemaking attached to it, is therefore the first critical step for making broadband deployment in Indian Country a reality. The digital footprint of Indian Country is nearly invisible. To overcome the vulnerability of Tribes that comes along with an information age driven by data, NPM has prioritized access to spectrum. Without spectrum, a robust and healthy digital ecology in Indian Country is nothing more than a pipe dream.
NOTICES & COMMENTS
Letter to the White House Office of Science & Technology
1.28.2021
During the COVID-19 pandemic, FCC action is urgently needed to bridge the digital divide so that all people have affordable internet access enabling them to stay safe while working and learning remotely. We ask you to ensure that these critical efforts are not stalled in a deadlocked FCC by seating a fifth commissioner as soon as possible.
FCC Grants Makah Tribe Temporary Spectrum during COVID-19 Pandemic
5.31.2020
The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau has granted an emergency Special Temporary Authority request filed by the Makah Tribe to use unassigned spectrum in the 2.5 GHz band to provide wireless broadband service over its reservation as part of its emergency COVID-19 pandemic response.
Letter to Congress and Senate - Broadband Stimulus
4.29.2020
NPM and allies urge Congress and Senate to make broadband affordable for all citizens. During a time when communication tools have never been more critical, and unemployment has never been so high, Congress must enact policies to ensure that everyone has broadband internet. Broadband is crucial for keeping residents home, safe, and as connected with everyday life as possible during these trying times. Broadband enables people to work remotely, access medical care, and apply for government benefits...
Letter to Chairman Pai - Availablity and Affordability of Communication Services
4.21.2020
NPM thanks the FCC for temporarily granting the Navajo Nation use of the 2.5 GHz band needed to provide wireless broadband services on the reservation during the COVID-19 pandemic. NPM urges the Commission to encourage Internet Service Providers to offer free broadband to Native radio stations/television stations, Tribal governments, first responders and hospitals...
Letter to Chairman Pai - Request to Extend 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Window
3.24.2020
NPM and MuraNet wrote a letter to Chairman Pai and Secretary Dortch to extend the 2.5 GHz Rural Tribal Window due to COVID-19. The window is currently open from February 2, 2020, to August 3, 2020, the window has been requested to extend an additional 12 months.
Wireless Bureau Announces Website on Rural Tribal Window and Mapping Tool
11.4.2019
The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau issued a public notice on November 1, 2019, announcing the launch of a webpage that provides information about the rural tribal window the FCC established in July 2019, and will provide federally recognized tribal entities with an opportunity to apply for unassigned 2.5 GHz spectrum in what was formerly designated as the Educational Broadband Service. The FCC said the website provides access to a mapping tool used by tribal entities to help them assess whether and to what extent there is unassigned 2.5 GHz spectrum available over their eligible tribal lands. The mapping tool provides a high-level view of spectrum availability and allows users to link to the universal licensing system to confirm the exact amount of eligible spectrum available. The bureau also said the FCC is planning to host a workshop, tentatively scheduled for mid-December, to provide additional information.