The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a final rule that, if adopted, would allow schools and libraries to use E-Rate program funds for off-campus WiFi hotspots.
Established in 1996, the FCC’s E-Rate program is designed to help schools and libraries get affordable broadband service. But in today’s digital age, the program doesn’t support off-site wireless internet service, leaving millions of students without internet access to do their homework.
“I’m proud to have finalized a rule that will allow schools and libraries to use Federal Communications Commission’s E-Rate program funds for Wi-Fi hotspots to increase access to distance learning and virtual library services, especially in low-income and rural areas,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. statement June 26th.
“It should be standard practice for students and others who don’t have access to the internet at home to be able to borrow Wi-Fi hotspots from their local library,” FCC Chairman Jessica Rosenworcel said in an FCC statement. press release“This update will help us close the homework gap and help those on the other side of the digital divide to fully participate in modern social and commercial life.”
The full commission is scheduled to vote on the final rules at a July 18 public meeting.
The move comes at a critical time, as the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ends on May 31, despite opposition from some lawmakers. Efforts to revive the program.
The ACP is the nation’s largest affordable broadband program, offering eligible households up to $30 off their internet bills per month, and up to $75 off for those who live on qualifying tribal lands. 23 million U.S. households have participated in the program.
Now that the program has ended, the FCC said, “many affected households may need to rely on their local schools and libraries to maintain connectivity for education.”
Sen. Edward Markey, Democrat of Massachusetts, the architect of the original E-Rate program, praised the FCC’s proposed final rule and said he looked forward to working with the committee and his colleagues to “make this necessary update to the E-Rate a reality.”
“Whether at school, in the library, or now at home, the E-Rate program provides students and educators with a ticket to learn, grow, and discover opportunity through internet access,” said Senator Markey. “E-Rate is critical infrastructure that helps close the digital divide for students and educators in an increasingly online learning environment. I was proud to have conceived this program more than 20 years ago, and I applaud Chairman Rosenworcel and the FCC’s efforts to modernize the program.”
