Digital Inclusion
FCC Defends Most Broadcaster Demographic Reporting
The agency dropped its defense of the nonbinary classification in its equal employment opportunity reporting rules.
Digital Inclusion
Sen. Cruz Leads GOP Effort to Block FCC’s Wi-Fi Hotspots Order
Cruz and 12 other senators went for the jugular on the Biden Administration’s off-campus hotspot rule for schoolchildren.
Donald Trump
Experts Predict BEAD, USF Reforms in 2025
Broadband experts McDowell, Olsen predict BEAD, USF reforms under Trump.
Congress
Think Tank Analysts Outline Pro-Growth Broadband Reforms
Competitive Enterprise Institute team calls for FCC auction authority renewal, USF funding overhaul, and NTIA bureaucratic reform.
USF
Lawmakers, Past FCC Leaders Urge Supreme Court to Uphold USF
In all, 29 lawmakers and eight former FCC commissioners signed the briefs.
USF
Solicitor General Defends Universal Service Fund at High Court
The administration argued the law standing up the $8 billion fund didn't run afoul of the non-delegation doctrine.
USAC
Rosenworcel Appoints Eight to Serve on USAC Board
Board members will provide leadership at a time of possible reform.
12 Days of Broadband
A Year of Challenges for the Universal Service Fund
In 2024, USF encountered widespread calls for reforms to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness.
Benton
Supreme Court to Decide Fate of $8 Billion Broadband Fund
The outcome could affect millions who depend on the USF for affordable communication services.
Click-to-Cancel
FTC Click-to-Cancel Rules to Take Effect Jan. 14, 2025
Some groups think the rules are arbitrary.
USF
Cruz Wins Texas: Likely Senate Commerce Chair Supports Appropriations for USF
The GOP is not entirely in agreement on the issue, with some wanting to tap big tech revenue instead.
Education and Distance Learning
FCC Defends Bus Wi-Fi Before 5th Circuit
The court weighed whether a school bus can be considered a classroom under the E-Rate program’s guidelines.
Cox Communications
NTCA CEO Wants Stronger Copyright Protection for ISPs
Inconsistent court rulings force ISPs to make tough choices on user disconnections.
Fourth Circuit
Cox Fights Music Industry’s Liability Allegations at Supreme Court
Cox argued that it cannot be held responsible for user piracy, as the music industry pushes for broader liability.
Cox Communications
Fifth Circuit Holds ISP Accountable for User Piracy
The court found ISP’s inaction on piracy notices contributed to copyright infringement.
USF
ISPs, Consumer Groups Ask Supreme Court to Preserve USF
The FCC separately asked SCOTUS to intervene earlier this month.
