On December 15, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released a Notice of Inquiry seeking comment on issues related to the future of the Universal Service Fund (USF or Fund) in light of the broadband investments in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Infrastructure Act or Act). Specific to the E-rate and Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program the FCC is seeking comment on:
- What changes, if any, should FCC consider to the E-rate program in light of the Infrastructure Act and other recent developments?
- How can FCC best coordinate the E-rate program with the programs created by the Infrastructure Act to achieve its universal service goals, including ensuring high-speed broadband in schools and libraries?
- What role will the E-rate program have in the future given the evolving level of universal service?
- What data should be collected from recipients of the program, and how should this data collection take place?
- How can FCC protect against waste, fraud, and abuse in the E-rate program, particularly in light of the Infrastructure Act?
Comment Date: January 18, 2022
Reply Comment Date: January 31, 2022
The FCC’s Notice of Inquiry can be viewed here.
WC Docket No. 21-476
