Consumers’ Research
Growing Support for Assessing Big Tech to Fund Universal Service
SCOTUS is preparing to rule within weeks on a Constitutional challenge to the fund's structure.
Benton
The Benton Institute for Broadband and Society, previously known as the Benton Foundation, is a non-profit organization committed to ensuring that media and telecommunications serve the public interest and strengthen democracy.
BEAD
New BEAD Rules Trigger Uproar Over U.S. Broadband Future
Awardees under original rules say they may not reapply.
Broadband Live
Broadband Breakfast on June 4, 2025 – What Happens to USF When SCOTUS Rules?
Defenders of USF counter that the 1996 Telecom Act sets clear limits and that Universal Service Administrative Company's role is strictly ministerial.
Benton
Groups: FCC Needs to Combine Review of Big UScellular Deals
UScellular has deals to sell its operations and much of its spectrum to the three major wireless carriers.
Benton
Trump Administration Cancels Digital Equity Grants
Program supporters said the move would be illegal.
Benton
Consumer Groups, Rural Carriers Oppose AT&T-UScellular Spectrum Sale
AT&T would need a spectrum ownership cap waived to complete the $1 billion sale.
Benton
In ‘Delete’ Docket, Advocates Want Improvements to Lifeline, E-Rate and Local Control
Public interest groups say the FCC should modernize, not dismantle, key programs.
Benton
State Legislators: Don’t Upend BEAD
A bipartisan group of 115 legislators from 28 states urged caution as the Trump administration mulls rule changes.
Benton
Lawyers Backing FCC Cautiously Optimistic Ahead of Supreme Court USF Case Showdown
Telecom companies, public interest groups, and both the Biden and Trump administrations are united in the fight over the FCC’s Universal Service Fund.
Benton
Sixth Circuit Denies Rehearing in Net Neutrality Challenge
Public interest groups face an uphill battle in challenging the Sixth Circuit’s ruling, especially without FCC support.
Benton
Affordable Connectivity Program's End Spurs State-Level Action on Broadband
States are exploring new approaches to maintain broadband affordability for low-income households.
Benton
Rep. Louis Riggs: BEAD's Groundhog Day Moment
No reputable provider is going to propose serving areas that do not make sense with fiber.
OTI
Consumer Advocates to FCC: Deny T-Mobile’s Acquisition of UScellular
The $4.4 billion deal includes 4 million customers, 30% of UScellular’s spectrum, and more than 2,000 towers.
Benton
Johnny Kampis: Shot Clock Reforms Will Help Close Digital Divide
Reducing regulatory burdens will be key to ensuring the speedy and efficient growth of broadband.
JD Vance
Broadband Breakfast on February 12, 2025 - The Future of Affordable Broadband
Broader GOP signals suggest major changes ahead for Biden-era connectivity programs.
Benton
Broadband Industry, Advocates Defend USF to High Court
They said the underlying statute should survive even if SCOTUS expands the non-delegation doctrine.
