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.
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.
Expert Opinion
Policy Priorities for a Changing Guard at the FCC
Whether a second Trump administration will seize the moment to reset telecom policy is unknown, but the time for action is now.
USF
Ajit Pai: Congress Should Fund the USF
Congress would have to act in order for tech companies to be assessed, said Pai
Donald Trump
Levin: Elon Musk’s Growing Power Over U.S. Telecom Policy
Musk’s influence could drive changes to BEAD, spectrum policy, and the Universal Service Fund
Spectrum
Senate Majority Leader Thune Expected to Prioritize Spectrum
Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., would likely rein in Sen. Ted Cruz on USF, experts said.
Energy and Commerce
Rep. Latta Eying Energy and Commerce Chair
The Ohio Republican currently heads communications and technology subcommittee.
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
SHLB: FCC Should Not Cap Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending Periods
Schools and libraries should be able to style their lending practices, coalition says
Education
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.
USF
High Court Skeptical of Shielding USF from False Claims Act
Justices appeared receptive to a narrow ruling in the government's favor.
USF
Conservative Groups Oppose Broadband Taxes on ISPs, Agreeing with Rosenworcel
USF fees could increase monthly bills by more than $17
FCC
If Trump Won, What Would Carr Do as FCC Chairman?
The agency's senior Republican outlined policy priorities in his Project 2025 chapter.
Sixth Circuit
Policy Analyst: Expand USF to Include Edge Providers
Roslyn Layton calls for including digital services in USF funding to relieve burden on telecom consumers.
USF
AT&T and Feds Disagree on Whether Government ‘Provides’ USF Money
The company wants SCOTUS to find the fund isn't covered by the False Claims Act.
USF
SHLB Endorses Representatives for USAC
Organization cited a wealth of experience shared by the two nominees
Expert Opinion
To Withstand Emergencies Like Helene, Broadband Policies Need to Last
Going forward, we could mitigate risks by designing our networks with resiliency in mind.
