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Remote Learning Support (ECF) Launches in June

The Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program rules have been published by the FCC. Beginning this summer, schools and libraries will have the opportunity to seek reimbursement of expenses for remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a first-of-its-kind...

FCC Adopts ECF Rules, Details Pending

On May 10, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission adopted final rules to implement the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (ECF). The ECF will provide more than $7 billion to schools and libraries for Internet access services to schools...

FFL Expresses Concern Over Proposed ECF Rules

On May 3, 2021, an ex parte comment was filed by Funds For Learning expressing concern over the “all‐or‐nothing” processing of funding requests using the discount threshold methodology of prioritizing...

Cost Projections for 3rd Quarter 2021

On April 30, 2021, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) released their Quarterly Report with projections for the third quarter of 2021. USAC projects a consolidated operating and capital budget...

Group Recommends Changes to ECF Benefits

On May 5,2021, an ex parte comment was filed by Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition, State E-Rate Coordinators’ Alliance, Funds For Learning, State Educational Technology Directors Association, Urban...

by John Harrington

Big Urban Schools and Telco’s Benefit Most Under Proposed ECF

This is a significant moment. The education of millions of students is on the line. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has been receiving public comments and working feverishly to craft...

FCC Allows Public View of Draft ECF Rules

The FCC is developing the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program, a one-time program offering $7.171 billion in support to schools and libraries for remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The...

Broad Support for ECF Program

Through the recently enacted American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Congress established a $7.17 billion Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) for broadband internet service and equipment to support remote learning during...