FCC Expanding Connectivity and Access to Modern-Day Communications

Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel and her fellow Commissioners heard reports on the agency’s efforts to expand connectivity and access to modern-day communications. The presentation summarized the Commission’s efforts on providing fast, reliable and affordable internet, an essential element for personal and professional aspects of everyday life. These efforts included:

• The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): With over 23 million households enrolled across all 50 states, territories, and federally recognized Tribal lands, the success, reach, and impact of the program was unmatched. The ACP was the nation’s largest broadband affordability effort to date.
• Launching Broadband Labels: The FCC established labels for broadband providers to display specific information regarding their internet service plans, enabling consumers to make informed decisions when shopping.
• Modernizing E-Rate & Disability Access: The FCC modernized the E-rate program by expanding eligibility for Wi-Fi hotspots, Wi-Fi on school buses, and to address digital disparities on Tribal lands. It also adopted rules to improve the access and functionality of communications services for people with disabilities such as updating access to video conferencing services and requiring 100% of U.S. mobile wireless handset models to be hearing aid compatible.
• Drastically Improving Broadband Data Collection: A cross-agency team worked to develop the most accurate national broadband maps in our nation’s history, enabling the FCC to clearly understand the gaps in the country’s infrastructure and facilitate effective and targeted investments to expand this critical resource.