Implementing a Nationwide, Broadband, Interoperable Public Safety Network in the 700 MHz Band, 10295-10299 [2011-4058]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 37 / Thursday, February 24, 2011 / Proposed Rules (b) A person registering as a broker who is already registered as a manufacturer or exporter in accordance with part 122 of this subchapter must cite their existing manufacturer or exporter registration, and must pay an additional fee according to the schedule prescribed in § 122.3(a) for registration as a broker. * * * * * Dated: January 20, 2011. Ellen O. Tauscher, Under Secretary, Arms Control and International Security, Department of State. [FR Doc. 2011–3878 Filed 2–23–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710–25–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA–R06–OAR–2010–0252; FRL–9269–8] Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Texas; Revisions To Control Volatile Organic Compound Emissions From Consumer Related Sources The EPA is proposing to approve revisions to the Texas State Implementation Plan (SIP) that amend Title 30 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Chapter 115, Control of Air Pollution from Volatile Organic Compounds. The State submitted these revisions on March 4, 2010. These revisions remove the Texas Portable Fuel Container rule as an ozone control strategy from the Texas SIP for the Control of Ozone Air Pollution. In the submittal, Texas demonstrates that federal portable fuel container standards promulgated by EPA in 2007 are expected to provide equal to or greater emissions reductions than those resulting from the state regulations. The EPA is proposing to approve this SIP revision because it is expected that reliance on the more stringent federal portable fuel container standards will ensure that emission reductions equivalent to or greater than those in the repealed Texas portable fuel container regulations will continue to be achieved in the State of Texas. Accordingly, it is expected that this SIP revision will not have a negative impact neither on the emission reductions claimed in the Texas SIP, nor in Texas’ attainment of the NAAQS for ozone. This SIP revision eliminates the redundancy that has been created with the adoption by EPA of the emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS 16:43 Feb 23, 2011 Jkt 223001 Comments may be mailed to Mr. Guy Donaldson, Chief, Air Planning Section (6PD–L), Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200, Dallas, Texas 75202–2733. Comments may also be submitted electronically or through hand delivery/ courier by following the detailed instructions in the ADDRESSES section of the direct final rule located in the rules section of this Federal Register. ADDRESSES: Ms. Dayana Medina, Air Planning Section (6PD–L), Multimedia Planning and Permitting Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6, 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas 75202– 2733, telephone (214) 665–7241; fax number 214–665–7263; e-mail address medina.dayana@epa.gov. In the final rules section of this Federal Register, EPA is approving the State’s SIP submittal as a direct final rule without prior proposal because the Agency views this as a noncontroversial submittal and anticipates no adverse comments. A detailed rationale for the approval is set forth in the direct final rule. If no relevant adverse comments are received in response to this action, no further activity is contemplated. If EPA receives adverse comments, the direct final rule will be withdrawn and all public comments received will be addressed in a subsequent final rule based on this proposed rule. EPA will not institute a second comment period. Any parties interested in commenting on this action should do so at this time. Please note that if EPA receives adverse comment on an amendment, paragraph, or section of this rule and if that provision may be severed from the remainder of the rule, EPA may adopt as final those provisions of the rule that are not the subject of an adverse comment. For additional information, see the direct final rule, which is located in the rules section of this Federal Register. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Proposed rule. AGENCY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 Written comments must be received on or before March 28, 2011. DATES: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 40 CFR Part 52 SUMMARY: federal portable fuel container regulations in 2007. The EPA is proposing to approve these revisions pursuant to section 110 of the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA). Dated: February 9, 2011. Al Armendariz, Regional Administrator, Region 6. [FR Doc. 2011–3994 Filed 2–23–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 10295 FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION 47 CFR Part 90 [PS Docket No. 06–229; WT Docket 06–150; WP Docket 07–100; FCC 11–6] Implementing a Nationwide, Broadband, Interoperable Public Safety Network in the 700 MHz Band Federal Communications Commission. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: In this document, the Commission seeks comments on the development of a technical interoperability framework for the nationwide public safety broadband network. This document considers and proposes additional requirements to further promote and enable nationwide interoperability among public safety broadband networks operating in the 700 MHz band. This document addresses public safety broadband network interoperability from a technological perspective and considers interoperability at various communication layers. DATES: Submit comments on or before April 11, 2011. Submit reply comments on or before May 10, 2011. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by PS Docket No. 06–229, WT Docket 06–150 and WP Docket 07–100, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: https:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Agency Web Site: https:// www.fcc.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments in the Electronic Comment Filing System, https:// www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/. • Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service Express Mail and Priority Mail): Address to 9300 East Hampton Drive, Capitol Heights, MD 20743. • U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority mail: Address to FCC Headquarters, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington DC 20554. • Hand Delivery/Courier: FCC Headquarters at 445 12th St., SW., Room TW–A325, Washington, DC 20554. For detailed instructions for submitting comments and additional information on the rulemaking process, see the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION of this document. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jennifer Manner, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, at (202)–418–3619. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\24FEP1.SGM 24FEP1 10296 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 37 / Thursday, February 24, 2011 / Proposed Rules In the Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, FCC 11–6, adopted January 25, 2011, and released January 26, 2011, the Commission sought comment on an initial technical framework for public safety broadband network interoperability. The proposed framework would encompass technical rules for the network; public safety roaming on public safety networks; federal use of the network; testing and verification to ensure interoperability; and other matters relevant to ensuring the interoperability of the network. This full text of this document is available at https://www.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/ Daily_Business/2011/db0204/FCC-116A1.pdf. Pursuant to sections 1.415 and 1.419 of the Commission’s rules, 47 CFR 1.415, 1.419, interested parties may file comments and reply comments on or before the dates indicated on the first page of this document. Comments may be filed using: (1) The Commission’s Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS), (2) the Federal Government’s eRulemaking Portal, or (3) by filing paper copies. See Electronic Filing of Documents in Rulemaking Proceedings, 63 FR 24121 (1998). • Electronic Filers: Comments may be filed electronically using the Internet by accessing the ECFS: https:// fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs2/ or the Federal eRulemaking Portal: https:// www.regulations.gov. • Paper Filers: Parties who choose to file by paper must file an original and four copies of each filing. If more than one docket or rulemaking number appears in the caption of this proceeding, filers must submit two additional copies for each additional docket or rulemaking number. Filings can be sent by hand or messenger delivery, by commercial overnight courier, or by first-class or overnight U.S. Postal Service mail. All filings must be addressed to the Commission’s Secretary, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission. • All hand-delivered or messengerdelivered paper filings for the Commission’s Secretary must be delivered to FCC Headquarters at 445 12th St., SW., Room TW–A325, Washington, DC 20554. The filing hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. All hand deliveries must be held together with rubber bands or fasteners. Any envelopes must be disposed of before entering the building. • Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service Express Mail and Priority Mail) must be sent emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Feb 23, 2011 Jkt 223001 to 9300 East Hampton Drive, Capitol Heights, MD 20743. • U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority mail must be addressed to 445 12th Street, SW., Washington DC 20554. People with Disabilities: To request materials in accessible formats for people with disabilities (braille, large print, electronic files, audio format), send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202–418–0530 (voice), 202– 418–0432 (tty). Procedural Matters Paperwork Reduction Act The Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking contains proposed information collection requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), Public Law 104–13. The Commission, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork burdens, invites the general public and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to comment on the information collection requirements contained in this document, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104–13. Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis As required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA),1 the Commission has prepared this present Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) of the possible significant economic impact on small entities by the policies and rules proposed in this Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making (Fourth Further NPRM). Written public comments are requested on this IRFA. Comments must be identified as responses to the IRFA and must be filed by the deadlines for comments provided herein. The Commission will send a copy of the Fourth Further NPRM, including this IRFA, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration (SBA).2 A. Need for, and Objectives of, the Proposed Rules The rules proposed in the Fourth Further NPRM are necessary to ensure the interoperability of 700 MHz public safety broadband networks that are expected to be deployed in the near term. The proposed rules create technical requirements designed to ensure that public safety broadband 1 See 5 U.S.C. 603. The RFA, see 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., has been amended by the Contract With America Advancement Act of 1996, Pub. L. No. 104–121, 110 Stat. 847 (1996) (CWAAA). Title II of the CWAAA is the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA). 2 See 5 U.S.C. 603(a). PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 networks are technically and operationally compatible, so that public safety personnel from various jurisdictions and departments are able to communicate effectively over these networks. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes changes to part 90 of the rules. Specifically, it proposes to: (1) Develop a regulatory and operational framework for roaming from one public safety broadband network to another. (2) Require that public safety broadband networks meet certain technical requirements designed to ensure that networks are technically interoperable or compatible. (3) Require that public safety broadband networks meet additional requirements designed to ensure that networks achieve a baseline of operability necessary to support interoperable communications. (4) Require public safety broadband network operators to complete testing for equipment and user devices operated on their networks to ensure conformance with relevant technical standards and ensure interoperability between networks. (5) Make additional minor edits to part 90. B. Legal Basis The proposed action is authorized under sections 1, 2, 4(i), 5(c), 7, 10, 201, 202, 208, 214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 336, 337, 614, 615, and 710 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 151, 152, 154(i), 155(c), 157, 160, 201, 202, 208, 214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 336, 337, 614, 615 and 710. C. Description and Estimate of the Number of Small Entities to Which the Proposed Rules Will Apply The RFA directs agencies to provide a description of and, where feasible, an estimate of the number of small entities that may be affected by the proposed rules, if adopted.3 The RFA generally defines the term ‘‘small entity’’ as having the same meaning as the terms ‘‘small business,’’ ‘‘small organization,’’ and ‘‘small governmental jurisdiction.’’ 4 In addition, the term ‘‘small business’’ has the same meaning as the term ‘‘small business concern’’ under the Small Business Act.5 A small business concern 35 U.S.C. 603(b)(3). U.S.C. 601(6). 5 5 U.S.C. 601(3) (incorporating by reference the definition of ‘‘small business concern’’ in 15 U.S.C. 632). Pursuant to the RFA, the statutory definition of a small business applies ‘‘unless an agency, after 45 E:\FR\FM\24FEP1.SGM 24FEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 37 / Thursday, February 24, 2011 / Proposed Rules emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS is one which: (1) Is independently owned and operated; (2) is not dominant in its field of operation; and (3) satisfies any additional criteria established by the SBA.6 The proposed requirements of the Fourth Further NPRM would apply to public safety entities granted authority from the Commission to pursue deployment of public safety broadband networks within their jurisdictions. The term ‘‘small governmental jurisdiction’’ is defined generally as ‘‘governments of cities, towns, townships, villages, school districts, or special districts, with a population of less than fifty thousand.’’ 7 Census Bureau data for 2002 indicate that there were 87,525 local governmental jurisdictions in the United States.8 We estimate that, of this total, 84,377 entities were ‘‘small governmental jurisdictions.’’ 9 Thus, we estimate that most governmental jurisdictions are small. We anticipate, however, that the vast majority of small governmental jurisdictions will not be directly authorized to serve as operators of their own 700 MHz public safety broadband networks. Rather, we anticipate that such entities will operate primarily under authority granted to larger regional, tribal or national entities to serve as public safety broadband network operators.10 Accordingly, we anticipate that the proposed requirements that apply directly to public safety network operators are unlikely to directly affect a substantial number of small entities. consultation with the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration and after opportunity for public comment, establishes one or more definitions of such term which are appropriate to the activities of the agency and publishes such definition(s) in the Federal Register.’’ 5 U.S.C. 601(3). 6 Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 632 (1996). 7 5 U.S.C. 601(5). 8 U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2006, Section 8, p. 272, Table 415. 9 We assume that the villages, school districts, and special districts are small, and total 48,558. See U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2006, section 8, p. 273, Table 417. For 2002, Census Bureau data indicate that the total number of county, municipal, and township governments nationwide was 38,967, of which 35,819 were small. Id. 10 We note that none of the twenty-one jurisdictions that applied for and were granted conditional waivers for early public safety broadband network deployment, except one, would qualify as ‘‘small governmental jurisdictions.’’ See 5 U.S.C. 601(5); see also Requests for Waiver of Various Petitioners to Allow the Establishment of 700 MHz Interoperable Public Safety Wireless Broadband Networks, PS Docket 06–229, Order, 25 FCC Rcd 5145, 5147 (2010) (Waiver Order). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Feb 23, 2011 Jkt 223001 D. Description of Projected Reporting, Recordkeeping, and Other Compliance Requirements The Fourth Further NPRM proposes rule changes that will affect reporting, recordkeeping and other compliance requirements. Each of these changes is described below. The Fourth Further NPRM, proposes to require public safety broadband networks to support roaming from users of other public safety broadband networks. This would require network operators to provide technical roaming capability within their networks and to support of minimum set of user applications. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband networks to support seamless handover within the network’s coverage region. This would require network operators to implement the technical capability to support this feature within their networks. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband networks to adhere to a specified out-ofband-emissions requirement. This would require to public safety network operators to incorporate the proposed out-of-band-emissions requirement into the planning and design of their networks. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband networks to support a minimum set of applications, namely (1) Internet access; (2) Virtual Private Network (VPN) access to any authorized site and to home networks; (3) a status or information ‘‘homepage;’’ (4) provision of network access for users under the Incident Command System; and (5) field-based server applications. This would require public safety network operators to implement the technical capability to support these applications on their networks. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband network to meet performance requirements, namely that they provide outdoor coverage at minimum data rates 768 kbps downlink and 256 kbps uplink, for all types of devices, for a single user at the cell edge. Public safety network operators would need to incorporate these requirements into the planning and design of their networks. Public safety network operators would also be required to certify to the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau their compliance with these performance requirements. These certifications would need to be based on a representation of the actual ‘‘as-built’’ network and be accompanied by uplink PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 10297 and downlink data rate plots that map specific performance levels. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband networks to support specified security features, namely (1) The LTE signaling layer security features over the Radio Resource Control (RRC) protocol layer (UE and eNodeB); (2) EPC signaling layer security features over the Non Access Stratum (NAS) protocol layer (UE and MME); (3) and user data/ control layer security features over the Packet Data Convergence Sublayer (PDCP) protocol layer (UE and eNodeB). The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband networks to meet coverage and coverage reliability requirements. Specifically, it proposes to require public safety broadband networks to provide outdoor coverage reliability at a probability of coverage of 95 percent for all services and applications throughout the network. Public safety network operators would need to incorporate this requirement into the planning and design of their networks. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require each public safety broadband network operator to notify adjacent or bordering jurisdictions prior to deployment, and to allow adjacent or bordering jurisdictions the opportunity to negotiate a formal coordination agreement with the deploying jurisdiction. Any formal written agreements would be required to be submitted to the Bureau. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband network operators to complete conformance testing for the devices used on their network after a testing process for LTE devices operating in the public safety broadband spectrum becomes available. Public safety network operators would also be required to certify to the Commission their completion of conformance testing. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband network operators to submit plans for completing interoperability testing with other public safety broadband networks. The scope of the testing called for in a network operator’s plan would be required to be sufficiently broad to address all LTE capabilities and functions required for public safety broadband waiver recipients. Public safety network operators would also be required to certify their performance of such testing in accordance with their approved plans. The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require that public safety LTE devices support, at minimum, a five megahertz channel bandwidth. This requirement E:\FR\FM\24FEP1.SGM 24FEP1 10298 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 37 / Thursday, February 24, 2011 / Proposed Rules would need to be taken into account when designing or purchasing devices for use on public safety broadband networks. emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS E. Steps Taken To Minimize Significant Economic Impact on Small Entities, and Significant Alternatives Considered The RFA requires an agency to describe any significant alternatives that it has considered in reaching its proposed approach, which may include the following four alternatives (among others): (1) The establishment of differing compliance or reporting requirements or timetables that take into account the resources available to small entities; (2) the clarification, consolidation, or simplification of compliance or reporting requirements under the rule for small entities; (3) the use of performance, rather than design, standards; and (4) an exemption from coverage of the rule, or any part thereof, for small entities. The proposed requirements of the Fourth Further NPRM are designed to ensure that public safety broadband networks achieve a baseline of operability and nationwide interoperability. In developing these proposed requirements, the Commission has made significant efforts to ensure that the requirements imposed are the minimum necessary to ensure that public safety broadband networks are truly interoperable. As an alternative to its proposed approach, the Commission could have proposed more detailed and burdensome conditions on the design and implementation of these networks. The proposed rules seek to balance the need for flexibility in network design, cost, and implementation with the demands of nationwide interoperability. The establishment of differing compliance or reporting requirements for small entities would frustrate the goal of achieving nationwide interoperability. Given the importance of ensuring that public safety broadband networks are technically and operationally compatible, it is important that each network is subject to a comparable set of rules and requirements. F. Federal Rules That May Duplicate, Overlap, or Conflict With the Proposed Rule None. Ordering Clauses Pursuant to sections 1, 2, 4(i), 5(c), 7, 10, 201, 202, 208, 214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 336, 337, 614, 615, and 710 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 151, 152, 154(i), VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Feb 23, 2011 Jkt 223001 155(c), 157, 160, 201, 202, 208, 214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 336, and 337, the Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in PS Docket No. 06–229 is adopted. The Commission’s Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, shall send a copy of the Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, including the Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration. List of Subjects in 47 CFR Part 90 Administrative practice and procedure, Business and industry, Civil defense, Common carriers, Communications equipment, Emergency medical services, Individuals with disabilities, Radio, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Federal Communications Commission. Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Federal Communications Commission proposes to amend 47 CFR part 90 as follows: PART 90—PRIVATE LAND MOBILE RADIO SERVICES 1. The authority citation for part 90 continues to read as follows: Authority: Sections 4(i), 11, 303(g), 303(r), and 332(c)(7) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 161, 303(g), 303(r), and 332(c)(7) unless otherwise noted. 2. Section 90.7 is amended by adding the following definitions, Field-Based Server Applications, Incident Command System, Internet Access, Interoperability, Interoperability Testing, Public Safety Narrowband Operator, Roamer, Status or Information Homepage and Virtual Private Network Access to read as follows: § 90.7 Definitions. * * * * * Field-Based Server Applications. Applications that require client devices to consistently and continuously reach server-based systems from any other location (i.e., field locations) on the Internet. * * * * * Incident Command System. A standardized, on-scene, all-hazards incident management approach that allows for the integration of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications operating within a common organizational structure; enables a coordinated response among various jurisdictions and functional PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 agencies, both public and private; and establishes common processes for planning and managing resources. * * * * * Internet Access. Access to the global internet. * * * * * Interoperability. The ability of public safety agencies to communicate with one another via radio communications systems—to exchange voice and/or data with one another on demand, in real time, when needed and when authorized. Interoperability Testing. Testing to ensure interoperability between or among public safety broadband networks. * * * * * Public Safety Narrowband Operator. A Public Safety Narrowband Operator is a public safety entity that is authorized to operate and has deployed narrowband operations within the 763– 769 MHz and 793–799 MHz bands. * * * * * Roamer. A mobile station receiving service from a station or system in the public safety broadband network other than one to which it is a subscriber. * * * * * Status or Information Homepage. A method by which the operator of a host network provides roamers access to and distribution of available applications, alerts, incident-specific information, system status information, and information that the operator deems important to share with roamers on its system. * * * * * Virtual Private Network Access. Access to a network, such as a roamer’s home network, through use of a Virtual Private Network connection. 3. Section 90.1407 is amended by adding and reserving paragraphs (d) and (e) and adding paragraphs (f) through (j) to read as follows: § 90.1407 Spectrum Use in the Network * * * * * (d) [Reserved] (e) [Reserved] (f) Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must submit to the Chief of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau the following certifications: (1) Prior to deployment of any Radio Access Network equipment, a certification that it will be in compliance with paragraph (e) of this section as of the date its network achieves service availability. (2) Prior to deployment of any Radio Access Network equipment, a certification that it has performed E:\FR\FM\24FEP1.SGM 24FEP1 emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 37 / Thursday, February 24, 2011 / Proposed Rules interoperability testing on the following 3GPP LTE interfaces: Uu—LTE air interface, S6a—Visited MME to Home HSS, S8—Visited SGW to Home PGW and S9—Visited PCRF to Home PCRF for dynamic policy arbitration. (3) Within thirty days of the date its network achieves service availability, a certification that its network can provide a minimum outdoor data rate of 256 Kbps uplink and 768 Kbps downlink for all types of devices, per single user at the cell edge. (4) Six months following the release of a public notice announcing the availability of the PTCRB testing process for 3GPP LTE Band Class 14, a certification that the devices in use on its network have gone through and completed this process. (g) Out of Band Emissions: Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must adhere to the following limitations on out of band emissions: (1) On any frequency outside the 763– 768 MHz band, the power of any emission shall be attenuated outside the band below the transmitter power (P) by at least 43 + 10 log (P) dB. (2) On any frequency outside the 793– 798 MHz band, the power of any emission shall be attenuated outside the band below the transmitter power (P) by at least 43 + 10 log (P) dB. (h) Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must support the following applications: Internet access; Virtual Private Network access; a status or information ‘‘homepage;’’ access for users to the Incident Command System; and field-based server applications. (i) Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must support LTE signaling layer security features over the Radio Resource Control (RRC) protocol layer (UE and eNodeB); EPC signaling layer security features over the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocol layer (UE and MME); and user data/control layer security features over the Packet Data Convergence Sublayer (PDCP) protocol layer (UE and eNodeB). (j) Interference Mitigation. Ninety days prior to the deployment of any Radio Access Network equipment, a Public Safety Broadband Network Operator must provide notice to all adjacent or bordering jurisdictions of its plans for deployment. Any notified jurisdiction may then request, in writing, the opportunity to enter a written frequency coordination agreement with the operator. (1) Any such agreement, or modification to such agreement, must be submitted to the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau within 30 days of its execution. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Feb 23, 2011 Jkt 223001 (2) If parties are unable to execute an agreement within ninety days of the date a request is made, the parties may submit the dispute to the Bureau for resolution. 4. Add § 90.1409 to read as follows: § 90.1409 Protection of Incumbent Narrowband Operations (a) Ninety days prior to the deployment of any Radio Access Network equipment, a Public Safety Broadband Network Operator must provide notice to any incumbent Public Safety Narrowband Operator within its proposed area of operation or in any adjacent or bordering jurisdictions of its plans for deployment. Such notice shall identify: (1) The geographic borders within which the Public Safety Broadband Network Operator intends to operate; (2) Any geographic overlap; and (3) The proposed method of interference mitigation or notice of their intent to relocate the incumbent Public Safety Narrowband Operator. (b) Any notified jurisdiction shall respond to a notification under paragraph (a) of this section within 60 days. Such response shall identify: (1) The jurisdictions consent to any proposed interference mitigation or relocation proposal, and any counterproposals; and/or (2) Specific objections to any element of the notification. (c) The Public Safety Broadband Network Operator and Public Safety Narrowband Operator shall memorialize such agreements in writing. These agreements, or modification to such agreement, must be submitted to the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau within 30 days of its execution. (d) Any jurisdictions failing to resolve any disputes within 90 days following a response under paragraph (b) of this section may submit the dispute to the Bureau for resolution. [FR Doc. 2011–4058 Filed 2–23–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6712–01–P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 17 [Docket No. FWS–R6–ES–2010–0095; MO 92210–0–0008–B2] Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Wild Plains Bison or Each of Four Distinct Population Segments as Threatened AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 ACTION: 10299 Notice of 90-day petition finding. We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce a 90-day finding on a petition to list the wild plains bison (Bison bison bison), or each of four distinct population segments (DPSs), as threatened under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Based on our review, we find that the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing may be warranted. Therefore, we are not initiating a status review in response to this petition. However, we ask the public to submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the wild plains bison or its habitat at any time. DATES: The finding announced in this document was made on February 24, 2011. ADDRESSES: This finding is available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS–R6–ES–2010–0095. Supporting documentation we used in preparing this finding is available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, Wyoming Field Office, 5353 Yellowstone Road, Suite 308A, Cheyenne, WY 82009. Please submit any new information, materials, comments, or questions concerning this finding to the above address. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mark Sattelberg, Field Supervisor, Wyoming Field Office (see ADDRESSES), by telephone (307–772–2374) or by facsimile (307–772–2358). If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), please call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 800–877–8339. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: Background Section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) requires that we make a finding on whether a petition to list, delist, or reclassify a species presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are to base this finding on information provided in the petition, supporting information submitted with the petition, and information otherwise available in our files. To the maximum extent practicable, we are to make this finding within 90 days of our receipt of the petition, and publish our notice of the finding promptly in the Federal Register. E:\FR\FM\24FEP1.SGM 24FEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 37 (Thursday, February 24, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 10295-10299]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-4058]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

47 CFR Part 90

[PS Docket No. 06-229; WT Docket 06-150; WP Docket 07-100; FCC 11-6]


Implementing a Nationwide, Broadband, Interoperable Public Safety 
Network in the 700 MHz Band

AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: In this document, the Commission seeks comments on the 
development of a technical interoperability framework for the 
nationwide public safety broadband network. This document considers and 
proposes additional requirements to further promote and enable 
nationwide interoperability among public safety broadband networks 
operating in the 700 MHz band. This document addresses public safety 
broadband network interoperability from a technological perspective and 
considers interoperability at various communication layers.

DATES: Submit comments on or before April 11, 2011. Submit reply 
comments on or before May 10, 2011.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by PS Docket No. 06-229, 
WT Docket 06-150 and WP Docket 07-100, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. 
Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Agency Web Site: https://www.fcc.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments in the Electronic Comment Filing 
System, https://www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/.
     Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service 
Express Mail and Priority Mail): Address to 9300 East Hampton Drive, 
Capitol Heights, MD 20743.
     U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority 
mail: Address to FCC Headquarters, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington DC 
20554.
     Hand Delivery/Courier: FCC Headquarters at 445 12th St., 
SW., Room TW-A325, Washington, DC 20554.
    For detailed instructions for submitting comments and additional 
information on the rulemaking process, see the SUPPLEMENTARY 
INFORMATION of this document.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jennifer Manner, Federal 
Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 
at (202)-418-3619.

[[Page 10296]]


SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In the Fourth Further Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking, FCC 11-6, adopted January 25, 2011, and released January 
26, 2011, the Commission sought comment on an initial technical 
framework for public safety broadband network interoperability. The 
proposed framework would encompass technical rules for the network; 
public safety roaming on public safety networks; federal use of the 
network; testing and verification to ensure interoperability; and other 
matters relevant to ensuring the interoperability of the network. This 
full text of this document is available at https://www.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2011/db0204/FCC-11-6A1.pdf.
    Pursuant to sections 1.415 and 1.419 of the Commission's rules, 47 
CFR 1.415, 1.419, interested parties may file comments and reply 
comments on or before the dates indicated on the first page of this 
document. Comments may be filed using: (1) The Commission's Electronic 
Comment Filing System (ECFS), (2) the Federal Government's eRulemaking 
Portal, or (3) by filing paper copies. See Electronic Filing of 
Documents in Rulemaking Proceedings, 63 FR 24121 (1998).
 Electronic Filers: Comments may be filed electronically using 
the Internet by accessing the ECFS: https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs2/ or 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov.
 Paper Filers: Parties who choose to file by paper must file an 
original and four copies of each filing. If more than one docket or 
rulemaking number appears in the caption of this proceeding, filers 
must submit two additional copies for each additional docket or 
rulemaking number. Filings can be sent by hand or messenger delivery, 
by commercial overnight courier, or by first-class or overnight U.S. 
Postal Service mail. All filings must be addressed to the Commission's 
Secretary, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.

     All hand-delivered or messenger-delivered paper filings 
for the Commission's Secretary must be delivered to FCC Headquarters at 
445 12th St., SW., Room TW-A325, Washington, DC 20554. The filing hours 
are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. All hand deliveries must be held together with 
rubber bands or fasteners. Any envelopes must be disposed of before 
entering the building.
     Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service 
Express Mail and Priority Mail) must be sent to 9300 East Hampton 
Drive, Capitol Heights, MD 20743.
 U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority mail 
must be addressed to 445 12th Street, SW., Washington DC 20554.
    People with Disabilities: To request materials in accessible 
formats for people with disabilities (braille, large print, electronic 
files, audio format), send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the 
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-
418-0432 (tty).

Procedural Matters

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking contains proposed 
information collection requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction 
Act of 1995 (PRA), Public Law 104-13. The Commission, as part of its 
continuing effort to reduce paperwork burdens, invites the general 
public and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to comment on the 
information collection requirements contained in this document, as 
required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13.

Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis

    As required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA),\1\ the 
Commission has prepared this present Initial Regulatory Flexibility 
Analysis (IRFA) of the possible significant economic impact on small 
entities by the policies and rules proposed in this Fourth Further 
Notice of Proposed Rule Making (Fourth Further NPRM). Written public 
comments are requested on this IRFA. Comments must be identified as 
responses to the IRFA and must be filed by the deadlines for comments 
provided herein. The Commission will send a copy of the Fourth Further 
NPRM, including this IRFA, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the 
Small Business Administration (SBA).\2\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ See 5 U.S.C. 603. The RFA, see 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., has 
been amended by the Contract With America Advancement Act of 1996, 
Pub. L. No. 104-121, 110 Stat. 847 (1996) (CWAAA). Title II of the 
CWAAA is the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 
1996 (SBREFA).
    \2\ See 5 U.S.C. 603(a).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

A. Need for, and Objectives of, the Proposed Rules

    The rules proposed in the Fourth Further NPRM are necessary to 
ensure the interoperability of 700 MHz public safety broadband networks 
that are expected to be deployed in the near term. The proposed rules 
create technical requirements designed to ensure that public safety 
broadband networks are technically and operationally compatible, so 
that public safety personnel from various jurisdictions and departments 
are able to communicate effectively over these networks.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes changes to part 90 of the rules. 
Specifically, it proposes to:
    (1) Develop a regulatory and operational framework for roaming from 
one public safety broadband network to another.
    (2) Require that public safety broadband networks meet certain 
technical requirements designed to ensure that networks are technically 
interoperable or compatible.
    (3) Require that public safety broadband networks meet additional 
requirements designed to ensure that networks achieve a baseline of 
operability necessary to support interoperable communications.
    (4) Require public safety broadband network operators to complete 
testing for equipment and user devices operated on their networks to 
ensure conformance with relevant technical standards and ensure 
interoperability between networks.
    (5) Make additional minor edits to part 90.

B. Legal Basis

    The proposed action is authorized under sections 1, 2, 4(i), 5(c), 
7, 10, 201, 202, 208, 214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 
316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 336, 337, 614, 615, and 710 of the 
Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 151, 152, 154(i), 
155(c), 157, 160, 201, 202, 208, 214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 
310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 336, 337, 614, 615 and 710.

C. Description and Estimate of the Number of Small Entities to Which 
the Proposed Rules Will Apply

    The RFA directs agencies to provide a description of and, where 
feasible, an estimate of the number of small entities that may be 
affected by the proposed rules, if adopted.\3\ The RFA generally 
defines the term ``small entity'' as having the same meaning as the 
terms ``small business,'' ``small organization,'' and ``small 
governmental jurisdiction.'' \4\ In addition, the term ``small 
business'' has the same meaning as the term ``small business concern'' 
under the Small Business Act.\5\ A small business concern

[[Page 10297]]

is one which: (1) Is independently owned and operated; (2) is not 
dominant in its field of operation; and (3) satisfies any additional 
criteria established by the SBA.\6\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ 5 U.S.C. 603(b)(3).
    \4\ 5 U.S.C. 601(6).
    \5\ 5 U.S.C. 601(3) (incorporating by reference the definition 
of ``small business concern'' in 15 U.S.C. 632). Pursuant to the 
RFA, the statutory definition of a small business applies ``unless 
an agency, after consultation with the Office of Advocacy of the 
Small Business Administration and after opportunity for public 
comment, establishes one or more definitions of such term which are 
appropriate to the activities of the agency and publishes such 
definition(s) in the Federal Register.'' 5 U.S.C. 601(3).
    \6\ Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 632 (1996).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The proposed requirements of the Fourth Further NPRM would apply to 
public safety entities granted authority from the Commission to pursue 
deployment of public safety broadband networks within their 
jurisdictions.
    The term ``small governmental jurisdiction'' is defined generally 
as ``governments of cities, towns, townships, villages, school 
districts, or special districts, with a population of less than fifty 
thousand.'' \7\ Census Bureau data for 2002 indicate that there were 
87,525 local governmental jurisdictions in the United States.\8\ We 
estimate that, of this total, 84,377 entities were ``small governmental 
jurisdictions.'' \9\ Thus, we estimate that most governmental 
jurisdictions are small.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ 5 U.S.C. 601(5).
    \8\ U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United 
States: 2006, Section 8, p. 272, Table 415.
    \9\ We assume that the villages, school districts, and special 
districts are small, and total 48,558. See U.S. Census Bureau, 
Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2006, section 8, p. 273, 
Table 417. For 2002, Census Bureau data indicate that the total 
number of county, municipal, and township governments nationwide was 
38,967, of which 35,819 were small. Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We anticipate, however, that the vast majority of small 
governmental jurisdictions will not be directly authorized to serve as 
operators of their own 700 MHz public safety broadband networks. 
Rather, we anticipate that such entities will operate primarily under 
authority granted to larger regional, tribal or national entities to 
serve as public safety broadband network operators.\10\ Accordingly, we 
anticipate that the proposed requirements that apply directly to public 
safety network operators are unlikely to directly affect a substantial 
number of small entities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ We note that none of the twenty-one jurisdictions that 
applied for and were granted conditional waivers for early public 
safety broadband network deployment, except one, would qualify as 
``small governmental jurisdictions.'' See 5 U.S.C. 601(5); see also 
Requests for Waiver of Various Petitioners to Allow the 
Establishment of 700 MHz Interoperable Public Safety Wireless 
Broadband Networks, PS Docket 06-229, Order, 25 FCC Rcd 5145, 5147 
(2010) (Waiver Order).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

D. Description of Projected Reporting, Recordkeeping, and Other 
Compliance Requirements

    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes rule changes that will affect 
reporting, recordkeeping and other compliance requirements. Each of 
these changes is described below.
    The Fourth Further NPRM, proposes to require public safety 
broadband networks to support roaming from users of other public safety 
broadband networks. This would require network operators to provide 
technical roaming capability within their networks and to support of 
minimum set of user applications.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
networks to support seamless handover within the network's coverage 
region. This would require network operators to implement the technical 
capability to support this feature within their networks.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
networks to adhere to a specified out-of-band-emissions requirement. 
This would require to public safety network operators to incorporate 
the proposed out-of-band-emissions requirement into the planning and 
design of their networks.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
networks to support a minimum set of applications, namely (1) Internet 
access; (2) Virtual Private Network (VPN) access to any authorized site 
and to home networks; (3) a status or information ``homepage;'' (4) 
provision of network access for users under the Incident Command 
System; and (5) field-based server applications. This would require 
public safety network operators to implement the technical capability 
to support these applications on their networks.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
network to meet performance requirements, namely that they provide 
outdoor coverage at minimum data rates 768 kbps downlink and 256 kbps 
uplink, for all types of devices, for a single user at the cell edge. 
Public safety network operators would need to incorporate these 
requirements into the planning and design of their networks. Public 
safety network operators would also be required to certify to the 
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau their compliance with these 
performance requirements. These certifications would need to be based 
on a representation of the actual ``as-built'' network and be 
accompanied by uplink and downlink data rate plots that map specific 
performance levels.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
networks to support specified security features, namely (1) The LTE 
signaling layer security features over the Radio Resource Control (RRC) 
protocol layer (UE and eNodeB); (2) EPC signaling layer security 
features over the Non Access Stratum (NAS) protocol layer (UE and MME); 
(3) and user data/control layer security features over the Packet Data 
Convergence Sublayer (PDCP) protocol layer (UE and eNodeB).
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
networks to meet coverage and coverage reliability requirements. 
Specifically, it proposes to require public safety broadband networks 
to provide outdoor coverage reliability at a probability of coverage of 
95 percent for all services and applications throughout the network. 
Public safety network operators would need to incorporate this 
requirement into the planning and design of their networks.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require each public safety 
broadband network operator to notify adjacent or bordering 
jurisdictions prior to deployment, and to allow adjacent or bordering 
jurisdictions the opportunity to negotiate a formal coordination 
agreement with the deploying jurisdiction. Any formal written 
agreements would be required to be submitted to the Bureau.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
network operators to complete conformance testing for the devices used 
on their network after a testing process for LTE devices operating in 
the public safety broadband spectrum becomes available. Public safety 
network operators would also be required to certify to the Commission 
their completion of conformance testing.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require public safety broadband 
network operators to submit plans for completing interoperability 
testing with other public safety broadband networks. The scope of the 
testing called for in a network operator's plan would be required to be 
sufficiently broad to address all LTE capabilities and functions 
required for public safety broadband waiver recipients. Public safety 
network operators would also be required to certify their performance 
of such testing in accordance with their approved plans.
    The Fourth Further NPRM proposes to require that public safety LTE 
devices support, at minimum, a five megahertz channel bandwidth. This 
requirement

[[Page 10298]]

would need to be taken into account when designing or purchasing 
devices for use on public safety broadband networks.

E. Steps Taken To Minimize Significant Economic Impact on Small 
Entities, and Significant Alternatives Considered

    The RFA requires an agency to describe any significant alternatives 
that it has considered in reaching its proposed approach, which may 
include the following four alternatives (among others): (1) The 
establishment of differing compliance or reporting requirements or 
timetables that take into account the resources available to small 
entities; (2) the clarification, consolidation, or simplification of 
compliance or reporting requirements under the rule for small entities; 
(3) the use of performance, rather than design, standards; and (4) an 
exemption from coverage of the rule, or any part thereof, for small 
entities.
    The proposed requirements of the Fourth Further NPRM are designed 
to ensure that public safety broadband networks achieve a baseline of 
operability and nationwide interoperability. In developing these 
proposed requirements, the Commission has made significant efforts to 
ensure that the requirements imposed are the minimum necessary to 
ensure that public safety broadband networks are truly interoperable. 
As an alternative to its proposed approach, the Commission could have 
proposed more detailed and burdensome conditions on the design and 
implementation of these networks. The proposed rules seek to balance 
the need for flexibility in network design, cost, and implementation 
with the demands of nationwide interoperability.
    The establishment of differing compliance or reporting requirements 
for small entities would frustrate the goal of achieving nationwide 
interoperability. Given the importance of ensuring that public safety 
broadband networks are technically and operationally compatible, it is 
important that each network is subject to a comparable set of rules and 
requirements.

F. Federal Rules That May Duplicate, Overlap, or Conflict With the 
Proposed Rule

    None.

Ordering Clauses

    Pursuant to sections 1, 2, 4(i), 5(c), 7, 10, 201, 202, 208, 214, 
301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 333, 
336, 337, 614, 615, and 710 of the Communications Act of 1934, as 
amended, 47 U.S.C. 151, 152, 154(i), 155(c), 157, 160, 201, 202, 208, 
214, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 314, 316, 319, 324, 332, 
333, 336, and 337, the Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in 
PS Docket No. 06-229 is adopted. The Commission's Consumer and 
Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, shall send a 
copy of the Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, including the 
Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, to the Chief Counsel for 
Advocacy of the Small Business Administration.

List of Subjects in 47 CFR Part 90

    Administrative practice and procedure, Business and industry, Civil 
defense, Common carriers, Communications equipment, Emergency medical 
services, Individuals with disabilities, Radio, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

Federal Communications Commission.
Marlene H. Dortch,
Secretary.
    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Federal 
Communications Commission proposes to amend 47 CFR part 90 as follows:

PART 90--PRIVATE LAND MOBILE RADIO SERVICES

    1. The authority citation for part 90 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: Sections 4(i), 11, 303(g), 303(r), and 332(c)(7) of 
the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 161, 
303(g), 303(r), and 332(c)(7) unless otherwise noted.

    2. Section 90.7 is amended by adding the following definitions, 
Field-Based Server Applications, Incident Command System, Internet 
Access, Interoperability, Interoperability Testing, Public Safety 
Narrowband Operator, Roamer, Status or Information Homepage and Virtual 
Private Network Access to read as follows:


Sec.  90.7  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Field-Based Server Applications. Applications that require client 
devices to consistently and continuously reach server-based systems 
from any other location (i.e., field locations) on the Internet.
* * * * *
    Incident Command System. A standardized, on-scene, all-hazards 
incident management approach that allows for the integration of 
facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications 
operating within a common organizational structure; enables a 
coordinated response among various jurisdictions and functional 
agencies, both public and private; and establishes common processes for 
planning and managing resources.
* * * * *
    Internet Access. Access to the global internet.
* * * * *
    Interoperability. The ability of public safety agencies to 
communicate with one another via radio communications systems--to 
exchange voice and/or data with one another on demand, in real time, 
when needed and when authorized.
    Interoperability Testing. Testing to ensure interoperability 
between or among public safety broadband networks.
* * * * *
    Public Safety Narrowband Operator. A Public Safety Narrowband 
Operator is a public safety entity that is authorized to operate and 
has deployed narrowband operations within the 763-769 MHz and 793-799 
MHz bands.
* * * * *
    Roamer. A mobile station receiving service from a station or system 
in the public safety broadband network other than one to which it is a 
subscriber.
* * * * *
    Status or Information Homepage. A method by which the operator of a 
host network provides roamers access to and distribution of available 
applications, alerts, incident-specific information, system status 
information, and information that the operator deems important to share 
with roamers on its system.
* * * * *
    Virtual Private Network Access. Access to a network, such as a 
roamer's home network, through use of a Virtual Private Network 
connection.
    3. Section 90.1407 is amended by adding and reserving paragraphs 
(d) and (e) and adding paragraphs (f) through (j) to read as follows:


Sec.  90.1407  Spectrum Use in the Network

* * * * *
    (d) [Reserved]
    (e) [Reserved]
    (f) Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must submit to the 
Chief of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau the following 
certifications:
    (1) Prior to deployment of any Radio Access Network equipment, a 
certification that it will be in compliance with paragraph (e) of this 
section as of the date its network achieves service availability.
    (2) Prior to deployment of any Radio Access Network equipment, a 
certification that it has performed

[[Page 10299]]

interoperability testing on the following 3GPP LTE interfaces: Uu--LTE 
air interface, S6a--Visited MME to Home HSS, S8--Visited SGW to Home 
PGW and S9--Visited PCRF to Home PCRF for dynamic policy arbitration.
    (3) Within thirty days of the date its network achieves service 
availability, a certification that its network can provide a minimum 
outdoor data rate of 256 Kbps uplink and 768 Kbps downlink for all 
types of devices, per single user at the cell edge.
    (4) Six months following the release of a public notice announcing 
the availability of the PTCRB testing process for 3GPP LTE Band Class 
14, a certification that the devices in use on its network have gone 
through and completed this process.
    (g) Out of Band Emissions: Public Safety Broadband Network 
Operators must adhere to the following limitations on out of band 
emissions:
    (1) On any frequency outside the 763-768 MHz band, the power of any 
emission shall be attenuated outside the band below the transmitter 
power (P) by at least 43 + 10 log (P) dB.
    (2) On any frequency outside the 793-798 MHz band, the power of any 
emission shall be attenuated outside the band below the transmitter 
power (P) by at least 43 + 10 log (P) dB.
    (h) Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must support the 
following applications: Internet access; Virtual Private Network 
access; a status or information ``homepage;'' access for users to the 
Incident Command System; and field-based server applications.
    (i) Public Safety Broadband Network Operators must support LTE 
signaling layer security features over the Radio Resource Control (RRC) 
protocol layer (UE and eNodeB); EPC signaling layer security features 
over the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocol layer (UE and MME); and user 
data/control layer security features over the Packet Data Convergence 
Sublayer (PDCP) protocol layer (UE and eNodeB).
    (j) Interference Mitigation. Ninety days prior to the deployment of 
any Radio Access Network equipment, a Public Safety Broadband Network 
Operator must provide notice to all adjacent or bordering jurisdictions 
of its plans for deployment. Any notified jurisdiction may then 
request, in writing, the opportunity to enter a written frequency 
coordination agreement with the operator.
    (1) Any such agreement, or modification to such agreement, must be 
submitted to the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau within 30 
days of its execution.
    (2) If parties are unable to execute an agreement within ninety 
days of the date a request is made, the parties may submit the dispute 
to the Bureau for resolution.
    4. Add Sec.  90.1409 to read as follows:


Sec.  90.1409  Protection of Incumbent Narrowband Operations

    (a) Ninety days prior to the deployment of any Radio Access Network 
equipment, a Public Safety Broadband Network Operator must provide 
notice to any incumbent Public Safety Narrowband Operator within its 
proposed area of operation or in any adjacent or bordering 
jurisdictions of its plans for deployment. Such notice shall identify:
    (1) The geographic borders within which the Public Safety Broadband 
Network Operator intends to operate;
    (2) Any geographic overlap; and
    (3) The proposed method of interference mitigation or notice of 
their intent to relocate the incumbent Public Safety Narrowband 
Operator.
    (b) Any notified jurisdiction shall respond to a notification under 
paragraph (a) of this section within 60 days. Such response shall 
identify:
    (1) The jurisdictions consent to any proposed interference 
mitigation or relocation proposal, and any counterproposals; and/or
    (2) Specific objections to any element of the notification.
    (c) The Public Safety Broadband Network Operator and Public Safety 
Narrowband Operator shall memorialize such agreements in writing. These 
agreements, or modification to such agreement, must be submitted to the 
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau within 30 days of its 
execution.
    (d) Any jurisdictions failing to resolve any disputes within 90 
days following a response under paragraph (b) of this section may 
submit the dispute to the Bureau for resolution.

[FR Doc. 2011-4058 Filed 2-23-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.