Rep Terry Seeking New Democratic Partner For Universal Service Reform

Rep Lee Terry (R-Nebraska) said he is seeking a new Democratic partner to work with him to push legislation that would overhaul the universal service fund, which provides subsidies for telecommunications services in rural and high-cost areas.

Terry's longtime partner in recent years in the effort to overhaul the fund, Rep Rick Boucher (D-VA) was defeated for re-election in November. As chairman of the House Communications Subcommittee, Rep Boucher played a key role in pushing the issue this Congress. Despite the loss of Boucher, Rep Terry, who also sits on the House Commerce Committee, said he plans to take the lead on the effort. He added, however, that he believes it will take a Democratic partner to help move the measure forward, saying "it needs to be bipartisan." He said he has talked with some Democratic members about working with him on the bill but was not ready to reveal any names. Incoming House Commerce Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) is supportive of the effort but it's unclear where the issue will fall on Upton's priority list.