Requires the FCC to create a vetting process that checks whether companies applying for new high-cost universal service funding have the technical, financial, and operational capacity to build and run the broadband network they propose.

• Directs the FCC to begin a rulemaking within 180 days of enactment to set up the vetting process for applicants for new high-cost universal service awards.
• Requires applicants to submit a detailed proposal with documentation showing their technical, financial, and operational capabilities and a reasonable business plan.
• Has the FCC judge proposals against established technical, financial, and operational standards and each applicant's record of complying with past broadband funding programs.
• Sets a penalty of at least $9,000 per violation for pre-authorization defaults, with a base forfeiture of at least 30 percent of the applicant's total support unless the FCC shows a case for lower penalties.

• Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (Senate)

Science, Technology, Communications