USF
Consumers’ Research Still Says Portions of Universal Service Fund Unconstitutional
The group argued that two provisions of the Telecom Act cannot stand because otherwise they would give the FCC ‘virtually unbounded authority’
USF
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 expanded the Universal Service Fund to ensure that all Americans, especially those in rural or low income communities, have broadband access. The FCC administers the fund through four programs: High Cost Support Mechanism, Low Income Support Mechanism, Rural Health Care Support Mechanism, and Schools and Libraries Support Mechanism.
FCC
Carr Grilled on Broadcasting, Also Testifies on Spectrum and Universal Service
The three-hour hearing was largely focused on broadcast regulation and accusations the agency was pressuring media companies critical of the White House.
CES2026
CES2026: From Innovation to Guardrails, Senators Confront Tech’s Next Phase
Democratic lawmakers cite broadband gaps, data security, and autonomous vehicle safety as concerns that are not being addressed
12 Days of Broadband
Broadband Affordability Falters in 2025
In spite of the political salience of 'affordability,' federal rollbacks, industry pressure, and stalled state efforts took a toll on low-income Americans' broadband.
Digital Inclusion
Libraries and Schools Urge FCC to Restore Off-Campus Wi-Fi Support
Backing petitions for reconsideration, advocates say E-Rate rollback threatens students’ connectivity.
12 Days of Broadband
Universal Service Fund Survived, Faces New Legal and Political Challenges
A follow-on legal case about the USF resumed on Wednesday, Dec. 3, in the Fifth Circuit.
FCC
FCC Sets 2026 Urban Rate Benchmarks for Broadband
FCC establishes $96 benchmark for broadband plans offered by USF recipients
USF
Universal Service Fund Working Group Looking for FCC Briefing
Lawmakers are considering how best to reform the fund.
USF
Universal Service Fund Contribution Factor Projected at 37.6% in 2026
Believe it or not, that 37.6 percent is down from the current 38.1 percent.
Tribal
Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Expand Universal Service Fund Coverage in Indian Country
Bill would amend the Communications Act to formally include Tribal communities in universal service.
NTIA
NTIA Cracks Down on BEAD Proposals Built on ‘Hypothetical’ Funding
The agency will issue new guidance on how states should evaluate 'speculative' or uncommitted funding sources in BEAD.
Rural
FCC Chair Offers Few Specifics on Universal Service Reforms
NTCA’s Bloomfield worries Carr’s push for USF ‘efficiency’ could hurt rural providers
EPA
Record Shutdown Leaves Communications Agencies Strained Despite Senate Action
The shutdown slowed down broadband rollout, telecom licensing, merger activity.
Funding
Appeals Court Grants FCC Request to Pause USF Challenge
Fifth Circuit stay halts proceedings in Consumers’ Research v. FCC until government funding resumes
BEAD
NTIA: BEAD Winners Can Continue to Receive Opex Subsidies for Existing Networks
Prohibition on operational subsidies 'applies only to BEAD-funded projects and does not affect existing subsidies in non-BEAD areas to which a provider is already entitled.'
NTIA
Advocacy Group Opposed to BEAD Restrictions on Opex
The Community Broadband Action Network said some members were nervous about accepting BEAD awards.
