Save E-Rate and Keep Internet Access Affordable

Congress created E-Rate in 1996 to make internet access affordable for schools and libraries at a time when only 14% were online. E-Rate gives schools and libraries discounts of 20 to 90% on internet service and equipment, with the deepest discounts going to those serving the most low-income students. It typically distributes more than $2 billion a year and supports over 12,500 libraries and 106,000 schools nationwide. Now that most libraries and schools have broadband internet access, the FCC is weighing whether to scale back or end the program.

The FCC voted 2-1 to launch a broad review of the program and decide whether E-Rate should be eliminated, citing concerns about screen time as a reason. They also floated limiting support to rural areas or places with only one internet provider, and phasing out funding in areas with lower school lunch participation.

Getting connected was never a one-time cost and without E-Rate, schools and libraries would have to cut staff and services to cover their massive bills. School districts in San Bernardino County, California pay tens of thousands of dollars a month for internet, and a remote Alaska district with just under 400 students spends more than half a million dollars a year to connect six schools.

The success of E-Rate is not a good reason to end the program. Urge Congress to press the FCC to keep this program intact. You can also submit a public comment to the FCC through October 13.