PUC approves federal universal‑service certifications for five telecom dockets

The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission on July 28 voted to provide certification to the Federal Communications Commission and the Universal Service Administrative Company that will allow five telecommunications providers to receive federal universal‑service support in calendar year 2027.

Ryan Taylor of Cutler Law, speaking for multiple rural providers, said the companies relied on their filed documents and data responses in the dockets and were available to answer commissioner questions. "Santel Communications Cooperative is requesting that the commission grant it the requested certification to receive universal service funds during calendar year 2027," Taylor said on the record. PUC staff reviewed each filing and recommended certification for Santel, Triotel, City of Faith Municipal Telephone, West River Telecommunications Cooperative and Kennebec Telephone Company.

Commissioner Feagin moved the consolidated motion to provide certification in TC 26‑006, TC 26‑011, TC 26‑013, TC 26‑015 and TC 26‑020. The commission voted with Commissioners Hansen and Feagin joining Chairman Nelson in the affirmative and the motion carried. Staff told the commission that firms had answered data requests and that revised exhibits—where filed—had been reviewed.

The certifications are administrative approvals the PUC transmits to the FCC and USAC so eligible carriers can receive universal‑service support. Commissioners discussed only limited procedural questions during the item; no dissenting views were recorded on the funding‑eligibility determinations.