Take Action

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to introduce a proposal that questions whether to continue the federal program that has made high-speed broadband and Wi‑Fi affordable for public libraries and schools nationwide: the FCC is threatening to terminate the E-Rate program.

The FCC’s plan raises questions about the scope and size of the program, the communities it serves, and how E-Rate recipients should address concerns about excessive screen time.  

Here is the good news: this is a proposal, not a decision. We are fighting this proposal. Library advocates must tell Congress how important this program is to their constituents. Congress has the authority over the E-Rate program and can help to ensure the FCC doesn’t overextend their power. 

ALA President Helmick put it so succinctly when they said:

“There is no justification for pulling the plug on E-Rate. E-Rate continues to fulfill the congressional mandate that established it 30 years ago: ‘providing affordable access to telecommunications services for all eligible schools and libraries, particularly those in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.’ As long as there are Americans who cannot afford or don’t have access to a high-speed broadband connection, E-Rate should continue."

Your voice counts. Your message could keep E-Rate in place and ensure libraries that need help paying their broadband bill can get the funding to keep it. 

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