On June 23, 2023, Federal Communications Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced a potential new rulemaking “to modernize the E-Rate program to support Wi-Fi hotspots for loan in libraries nationwide.” Speaking to the American Library Association, Rosenworcel referred to her prior proposal to make Wi-Fi service on school buses eligible for E-rate support. “We can make sure that every library, and every school library, can loan out these devices to any patron or student in need.”
Rosenworcel also referenced the ongoing discussion regarding cybersecurity and the E-rate program, stating that the commission knows that network security is a “growing concern” for schools and libraries and noting that the FCC plans “to announce next steps soon.”
Chairwoman Rosenworcel’s remarks to the ALA may be viewed here.
