FCC Proposes Sweeping Overhaul of E-Rate Program Rules
Schools, libraries, E-Rate consultants, and participating telecom providers must monitor these proposals, as they would reshape eligibility, compliance obligations, and funding for the federal program that supports K-12 and library broadband access.
On June 25, the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking public comment on sweeping changes to the E-Rate program, which provides discounted telecommunications and internet access to eligible U.S. schools and libraries. The proposals include narrowing eligible services and equipment, reevaluating discount rate calculations to potentially redirect more funding to rural areas, reinterpreting CIPA children’s online safety requirements, and establishing a broad new definition of 'consultant' subject to program oversight to reduce fraud risk. Stakeholders may submit feedback on all proposed changes during the open comment period.