"This page is a digitally archived AccessInfo Announcement"
On July 18, 2024, the FCC will vote on changes to the E-Rate program to support the off-premises use of Wi-Fi hotspots and Internet services through libraries and schools across the country. The E-Rate program provides support to ensure that schools and libraries can obtain affordable, high-speed broadband services and equipment.
On June 27, 2024, the FCC released a draft Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, to update the rules for the E-Rate program. If adopted, this item will modernize the E-Rate program rules to provide support to eligible schools and libraries to obtain Wi-Fi hotspots and wireless Internet services that can be loaned to students, school staff, and library patrons to use for their off-premises educational purposes. The Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks comment on additional changes to the E-Rate Wi-Fi hotspot lending program. The FCC also seeks comment on any issues impacting accessibility in these proposals.
Link to the DRAFT Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking:
URL: https://www.fcc.gov/document/modernizing-e-rate-support-wi-fi-hotspots
Link to News Release with Open Meeting Agenda for July 18, 2024 Open Meeting:
URL: https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-announces-tentative-agenda-july-open-meeting-11
The July 2024 Open Meeting is scheduled for 10:30 am ET on July 18, 2024 and will be held in the Commission Meeting Room, 45 L Street N.E., Washington, D.C 20554. The FCC meeting is also streamed live with open captioning at www.fcc.gov/live. Open captioning and sign language interpreting will be provided for this meeting. Other reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request. In your request, please include a description of the needed accommodation and how you may be reached if we need more information. E-mail your request to fcc504@fcc.gov or call (202) 418-0530.
For general information about E-Rate, visit https://www.fcc.gov/general/e-rate-schools-libraries-usf-program. For specific information about this draft, please contact Molly O’Conor in the Telecommunications Access Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau, at Molly.Oconor@fcc.gov or (202) 418-0578. Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) may call the FCC’s ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275.