On February 16, 2023, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a previously drafted Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) aimed at making “the E-Rate program easier for eligible Tribal applicants to encourage greater program participation.” In a statement, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel noted that the FCC wants “to make sure every Tribal library knows about the E-Rate program—and has the opportunity to use it to get online, stay online, and keep their communities connected.”
The NPRM will seek comment on a number of potential changes to the E-rate program, including:
- Simplifying E-Rate forms and cost-allocation requirements;
- Providing an additional competitive bidding exemption for low-cost services and equipment for Tribal applicants;
- Increasing the maximum discount rate for Category Two services from 85% to 90% for Tribal applicants;
- Allowing Tribal college libraries that serve a dual role by also serving as the Tribal community’s public library to be eligible for E-Rate support;
- Providing an extended or separate application filing window for Tribal libraries to align with their Tribal procurement requirements and approval processes;
- Increasing the Category Two $25,000 funding floor for Tribal applicants;
- Adding a Tribal representative to the Universal Service Administrative Company’s Board of Directors, which administers the program for the FCC; and
- Considering other potential reforms to encourage greater participation by Tribal or similarly situated small or rural applicants, particularly if they face barriers that impede equitable access to the E-Rate program.
The NPRM may be viewed here. Chairwoman Rosenworcel’s statement may be viewed here, and Commissioner Starks’ statement here.
