US schools and libraries urge FCC not to scrap E-Rate internet program
Hundreds of US schools, libraries and their associations oppose a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposal to limit or phase out E-Rate, which provides over $2 billion a year for internet connections. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has linked the program to children's excessive screen time.
US schools, libraries and their associations filed objections this week with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the federal agency that regulates the communications sector, against a proposal to limit or phase out the E-Rate program. It typically distributes more than $2 billion a year to help schools and libraries pay for internet service and network equipment. The decision on its future could affect students' and library visitors' access to the internet across the country.
Why the program is under threat
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has criticized school districts for allowing a major increase in students' screen time. He argues that E-Rate has grown beyond its original purpose of providing basic internet access for education. In June, the FCC voted 2-1 to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking public comment on whether the program should be limited or sunset. Last year the commission already ended funding for lending Wi-Fi hotspots and for Wi-Fi on school buses.
Objections
The American Library Association says Congress created the program in 1996 and that the FCC has no authority to terminate it, only to administer it. It also stresses that decisions about content inappropriate for children are made by school boards or libraries, not the federal government. The Texas Library Association says only 35% of the state's public libraries receive E-Rate discounts, versus 65% nationwide. The New York Library Association warns that without support, libraries would have to cut programs and services.
Paul Lapka, principal of Rock Valley Christian School in Iowa, said the school's annual internet cost is about $3,120, of which the program covers about $1,560. A cable industry lobbying group also opposes the proposal.
What happens next
FCC Democrat Anna Gomez voted against the proposal. Reply comments may be filed until November 12, after which Carr can present a final plan. Because Republicans hold a majority on the commission, the plan is likely to be approved, but FCC decisions are often challenged in court.
