Part of President-elect Obama’s plan for technology includes Universal Service reforms and a commitment to bring ‘next generation broadband’ to schools and libraries. The plan, which covers a wide array of technology topics, also indicates that Obama will seek to redefine ‘broadband’ from 200 kbps to ‘speeds demanded by 21st century business and communications.’
Part of the planned reforms for Universal Service Fund is to shift the program’s focus from voice communications to broadband, while committing to ensuring that schools and libraries have access to high-speed connections, ‘to take full advantage of the [next generation] broadband connectivity.’
For E-rate stakeholders this signals a commitment to the continuation of the program and possibly a shift in the program’s priorities to focus more on the delivery and support of broadband connectivity.
