Sprint will pay $10 million to resolve an investigation into potential violations of federal wireless infrastructure permitting rules.
The FCC this week announced settlements with the carrier and its contractor Mobilitie, which will pay $1.6 million.
The agency last year began investigating whether the companies properly subjected tower and small cell projects to environmental and historical reviews, as well as tribal consultation and FCC registration requirements.
The FCC recently overhauled its infrastructure review requirements, but the agency’s Enforcement Bureau said companies must comply with the law “as it stands whenever they are building infrastructure, operating wireless facilities, or taking other actions under FCC jurisdiction.”
“The law was clear and it is vital that carriers and infrastructure companies alike never duck their responsibilities,” acting Deputy Bureau Chief Christopher Killion said in a statement.
Sprint told Reuters in a statement that it takes compliance seriously and “will ensure that facilities are constructed only after appropriate permitting and review are completed.”
Mobilitie echoed those comments in a statement, as well as thanked the commission for the recent regulatory changes.
“Our agreement with the FCC demonstrates our continuing commitment to regulatory compliance, and we look forward to continuing our strong relationships with the Commission, municipalities and other stakeholders as we bring much needed next-generation networks to the U.S.,” said CEO Christos Karmis.
Filed Under: Industry regulations