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Universal Service Fund

All articles tagged with #universal service fund

"Internet Subsidy Program Expiration Threatens Access for Low-Income Americans"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by The Verge

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has provided crucial support for over 23 million low-income households to afford broadband service, but it is at risk of running out of funds by the end of April. There is a bipartisan push to extend the program, but the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) needs to take urgent action to sustain and expand the Universal Service Fund (USF) to ensure permanent funding for the ACP's subsidy for low-income households. This is essential for addressing the digital divide and ensuring universal and affordable connectivity for all Americans, regardless of economic status or geographic location.

nation technology affordable-connectivity-program broadband-access digital-divide fcc technology universal-service-fund

Starlink denied $886 million in rural broadband subsidies by FCC

Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Verge

The FCC has denied Elon Musk's Starlink a $886 million subsidy from the Universal Service Fund for expanding broadband service in rural areas. The FCC stated that Starlink failed to demonstrate its ability to deliver the promised service and that awarding the subsidy wouldn't be the best use of limited funds. This decision comes after Starlink's bid was rejected last year, leading to an appeal. Despite President Biden's promise of equitable internet access, his funding plan was significantly reduced, offering no money for locally-run internet service. SpaceX argues that Starlink is the only viable option to connect rural and remote areas where reliable and affordable high-speed internet is lacking.

business technology fcc rural-broadband starlink subsidies technology universal-service-fund