FCC may kill $2B program that connects schools and libraries to Internet

FCC considers axing $2 billion school and library internet connectivity scheme — Chairman blames tablets for moving kids away from "turning pages in books, penciling out answers to math problems"

FCC Chairman seeks public consultation regarding E-Rate programIntroduced in 1997, it offers schools 20-90% discounts on internetSchool bus Wi-Fi has already been pulled amid educational impact concernsThe FCC is considering ending the long-running E-Rate program in the US, which currently provides around $2 billion annually to help public facilities like schools and libraries pay for internet connections and networking infrastructure.Chairman B…

Advocacy groups call FCC's E-Rate review an 'attack' on schools and libraries

The FCC has initiated a broad review of the federal E-Rate program, opening the possibility for it to be limited or even terminated.

FCC may kill $2B program that connects schools and libraries to Internet

Carr cites screen time concerns, is accused of trying to be "the nation’s parent."

FCC wants to know: Should the E-rate program be eliminated?

The commission approved a request for public comment on whether it should reconsider the 30-year program that helps schools connect to the internet.

FCC Clears E-Rate Review, Local Permit Shot Clock Proposal

WASHINGTON, June 25, 2026 – The Federal Communications Commission voted Thursday to kick off a broad review of its $2.5 billion-per-year subsidy program for broadband in schools and libraries.FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the inquiry, already contested by supporters of the E-Rate program, was a response to rising screen time and falling test scores in U.S. schools. The item will seek comment on whether a requirement that schools and libraries b…

Incompas and State Groups Defend E-rate Program Ahead of FCC Vote on NPRM

Incompas urged the FCC last week to tweak its E-rate NPRM to ask more "forward-looking questions" about the future of the program, according to a filing posted Monday in docket 26-133 to recap meetings with FCC commissioner aides. The group...