US schools and libraries oppose proposed cuts to E-Rate internet funding
Schools, libraries and education groups across the United States are urging the Federal Communications Commission to abandon a proposal that could reduce or end E-Rate, a programme that helps fund their internet access. FCC chair Brendan Carr argues that broadband access is now widespread and has criticised schools’ increased screen use; opponents say the programme remains essential and that ending it could exceed the FCC’s authority.
E-Rate provides about $2 billion a year for connectivity at schools and libraries. The FCC is seeking public comment on limiting or sunsetting the programme, after already ending support for loaned Wi-Fi hotspots and school-bus Wi-Fi last year. The American Library Association says Congress mandated E-Rate and assigned the FCC to administer it, while the Texas Library Association says just 35 per cent of Texas public libraries receive discounts, compared with 65 per cent nationally.
- Schools and libraries want the FCC to preserve E-Rate.
- The programme provides about $2 billion a year for connectivity.
- The FCC is weighing limits or an end to the funding.
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E-Rate is a US federal programme that helps schools and libraries pay for internet connections. It is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the government body that oversees communications, and provides about $2 billion a year in support.
The FCC is considering whether to limit the programme or bring it to an end. Its chair, Brendan Carr, says broadband is now widely available and has raised concerns about screen use in schools. Schools, libraries and education groups say the funding is still needed, and some argue that Congress gave the FCC responsibility for running E-Rate. The debate matters because changes could affect how schools and libraries afford internet access.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of reducing or ending E-Rate can argue that broadband is now widely available, so a large federal subsidy may no longer be the best use of public funds. They may also question whether schools’ growing reliance on screens benefits pupils, and favour directing limited resources towards other educational needs.
The case against
Opponents argue that access being widespread does not mean every school or library can afford reliable, suitable connectivity; E-Rate helps close that gap, including for institutions that receive no discount today. They also contend that Congress mandated the programme and gave the FCC responsibility for administering it, so ending it may exceed the commission’s authority and weaken access to educational and library services.
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Originally published by Ars Technica as “Schools across US protest FCC plan that could disconnect kids from Internet”.