Sprint, Mobilitie Agree to Fines Over Small-Cell Violations
Sprint agreed to pay $10 million and business partner Mobilitie $1.6 million to resolve “separate but related” investigations into whether they completed proper tower registration and environmental and historic impact reviews before starting construction of small cells and associated equipment.…
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The FCC Enforcement Bureau said Tuesday it opened an investigation in response to a report that Sprint had allowed Mobilitie to build wireless facilities as part of the carrier’s densification and optimization program “without securing pre-build pre-requisites, in an apparent attempt to expedite deployment,” said an FCC consent decree. “Our Investigation revealed that the parties’ agreement made the third party responsible for all regulatory compliance regarding its poles and attachment rights, including compliance with the Environmental Rules.” Sprint agreed to update its compliance procedures and file a series of reports over three years, and take other steps to resolve the investigation. Mobilitie also agreed to put in place a compliance plan. “The law was clear and it is vital that carriers and infrastructure companies alike never duck their responsibilities,” said Christopher Killion, acting deputy chief of the Enforcement Bureau in a news release. “Even as our rules are updated over time, companies must abide by the law as it stands whenever they are building infrastructure, operating wireless facilities, or taking other actions under FCC jurisdiction.” Sprint didn't comment. "Mobilitie has been, and always will be, dedicated to regulatory compliance,” said Mobilitie CEO Christos Karmis. “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."