Chairman Pai's Response to Senators Regarding Maintaining Connectivity During COVID-19 Pandemic

On March 19, 2020, Sens Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) wrote to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai to urge the FCC to take action to ensure that all K-12 students in Minnesota have access to high-speed internet so they can continue their education while schools are closed in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The same day, Sens Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ed Markey (D-MA) wrote Chairman Pai to seek information about the FCC's authority and planned actions to immediately expand access to broadband and assist Americans with remote education, work, and health care during the outbreak. 

On April 24, Chairman Pai responded by saying he was "committed to using every resource at the FCC's disposal to deal with this unprecedented national emergency." He outlined steps the FCC has taken, including the COVID-19 Telehealth Program, the Keep Americans Connected Pledge, Universal Service Fund actions, granting additional spectrum to wireless providers, and launching a COVID-19 Consumer Warnings and Safety Tips webpage. "Finally, the Commission continues to work with Congress to secure the necessary authority and funding to enhance remote learning services and broadband connectivity in various cities and towns affected by the pandemic," he wrote.