Schools and libraries rally against FCC plan to curtail E-Rate internet funding

In a recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr called for public input on potentially scaling back or terminating the E-Rate program, which supplies discounted telecom services to schools and libraries. Carr contends the program now exceeds its original purpose of supporting basic internet access for educational use. The proposal could reduce the discounts schools and libraries receive and tighten spending rules, with the ultimate risk of eliminating the program entirely.

The National Association of Elementary School Principals and the American Library Association have both written to the commission, urging it to keep the program intact. Comments from numerous state and national groups, as well as individual schools and libraries, were filed this week opposing the changes. The FCC had already reduced E-Rate funding last year by ending support for Wi-Fi hotspots and bus Wi-Fi services.