Windstream Communications LLC (Windstream) has agreed to a Consent Decree with the Enforcement Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that resolves the Bureau’s investigation into violations of Universal Service Fund (USF) rules for determining Rural Health Care Program support. According to the Consent Decree, Windstream admitted it “did not comply with the specific methodology prescribed by the Commission,” and the Bureau stated “Windstream has not been able to provide the Commission with documents sufficient to demonstrate the processes used to set its rural rates.” Windstream agreed to repay $1,004,445.24 in USF receipts, and pay an additional civil penalty of $200,000. Windstream will also implement enhanced compliance measures and reporting.
