US schools and libraries urge FCC to scrap plan to end E-Rate internet funding

FCC weighs ending E-Rate

Schools and libraries across the United States have pleaded with the Federal Communications Commission to drop the idea of ending E-Rate, a program providing over $2 billion a year in discounts that connect students and library visitors to the internet. Chairman Brendan Carr has criticized school districts for experimenting with a massive increase in screen time for students, saying the program expanded beyond its original purpose of supporting basic internet access for educational purposes.

In June, Carr led a 2-1 vote to seek public comment on whether E-Rate should be limited or sunset to reflect today's extensive connectivity rates. The proposal could cut the discounts schools and libraries receive for telecom services and equipment, and sunsetting could mean ending the program entirely.

Comment period draws broad opposition

The National Association of Elementary School Principals urged the Commission to reject proposals that would eliminate or substantially restrict E-Rate. The American Library Association said the program is working as Congress intended when it passed the 1996 telecommunications law, and argued the FCC lacks authority to terminate a program mandated by Congress.

Carr's proposal said Congress was addressing a specific 1996 problem, limited access to advanced telecommunications and internet services, and that three decades of broadband expansion raise questions about continued funding. The library association replied that the FCC lacks authority to regulate screen time or determine educational outcomes, and that US law leaves content decisions to school boards and local authorities.

States, schools and industry push back

The Texas Library Association said only 35 percent of Texas public libraries receive E-Rate discounts, versus 65 percent nationwide, and only 55 percent meet the Commission's recommended speed benchmarks, calling the gap evidence of unmet need. The New York Library Association warned that many libraries would have to reduce programs and services if funding ends, since the library cannot operate without the internet.

The Alabama Association of School Boards said concerns about excessive screen use should not be addressed by reducing broadband infrastructure needed for legitimate educational purposes. Paul Lapka, principal of Rock Valley Christian School in Iowa, said E-Rate support of about $1,560 against annual internet costs of roughly $3,120 lets his school maintain reliable, high-speed internet, and cuts would mean higher local costs and delayed upgrades.

America's Communications Association, a cable industry lobby group, said widespread broadband availability is an E-Rate achievement, not a reason to withdraw support. The Schools, Health and Libraries Broadband Coalition said the program is the financial pillar behind most schools' and libraries' digital connections.

What comes next

FCC Democrat Anna Gomez voted against the proposal, saying E-Rate gives children in low-income neighborhoods and rural communities the same shot at a digital education and that policing children's behavior goes beyond the FCC's mandate. E-Rate has a funding cap of $5.2 billion, with payouts based on demand and application approvals, and is funded by fees on phone companies usually passed to consumers on monthly bills.

Reply comments may be submitted until November 12. After the comment period, Carr can present a final plan to change or eliminate E-Rate. With Republicans holding a 2-1 majority, whatever Carr proposes is likely to be approved, though FCC decisions are often challenged in court on grounds the agency exceeded its authority.

Sources: Ars Technica