Broadband Connectivity During the Age of COVID-19

The COVID-19 crisis laid bare critical shortcomings in our approach to universal service.  As good as our networks are, broadband accessibility is an issue for some American households. We believe bold action is needed – it is time for Congress to modernize and reform USF (Universal Service Fund) programs and establish a secure funding source for broadband connectivity for all Americans. In the coming months, we will be working with Congress, the Federal Communications Commission and the industry to establish the best framework for reform.  Congress has already passed the DATA Act, which will drive much more precise mapping of broadband availability.  Now, Congress needs to fund it. There also appears to be growing bipartisan support for significant broadband infrastructure funding that will at last create universal 21^st century connectivity the same way highway funding created universal 20^th century transportation networks.  If Congress makes the funding available, perhaps the planned Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) Phase I auction will at last fully address the rural availability gap. Lifeline reform is equally important.  COVID-19 revealed just how many low-income households currently have inadequate connections. Lifeline should be revamped and modernized so eligible households can secure benefits from certified communications providers as easily as they use SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to secure groceries at certified food stores. Indeed, the SNAP program could be a model for a modernized Lifeline approach, with the FCC directly issuing benefit cards to eligible households.  Given how important this program is, financial support for the program should be included directly as a line item in the FCC’s annual budget so Congress can adjust that budget as economic circumstances in the country dictate.