USF Opponents Attacking ‘a Strawman’: Trump Administration

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2025 – In a reply brief, the Trump administration defended the Universal Service Fund to the Supreme Court Thursday, arguing the challenge to its constitutionality attacked “a strawman.” Oral arguments are scheduled for March 26.

Managed by the Federal Communications Commission, USF spends about $8 billion per year supporting construction and maintenance of rural networks, plus internet discounts for low-income households, schools and libraries, and healthcare centers.

It’s funded by fees on interstate voice revenue, with the accounting work handled by the Universal Service Administrative Company, a nonprofit set up for the purpose.