An E-rate expansion that allowed schools to use the program’s funds for school bus Wi-Fi and hotspots for students could soon be reversed, pending a vote called for by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr.
According to a spokesperson, commissioners can vote on the matter outside of their open monthly meetings at their discretion.
With a Republican majority among the three commissioners, it is highly possible the E-rate expansion could be reversed and, if so, the FCC will direct USAC to deny the pending FY 25 requests to use E-rate funds for hotspots and school bus Wi-Fi services.
Currently, millions of students and older adults rely on the expanded E-rate services for homework and telehealth services, while school bus Wi-Fi access is especially beneficial for students in rural areas with long commutes to school.
In May, Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, led a U.S. Senate vote approving a bill that would repeal the FCC’s decision to cover hotspots under E-rate. The bill is still awaiting action from the U.S. House.
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