FCC Seeks Comment On Proposed Eligible Services List for the E-Rate Program

The Federal Communications Commission's Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) seeks comment on the proposed eligible services list (ESL) for the schools and libraries universal service support mechanism (more commonly known as the E-Rate program) for funding year (FY) 2025. The  Bureau proposes revisions to the draft FY 2025 eligible services list to implement the changes adopted by the FCC in the Wi-Fi Hotspot Report and Order. The FCC identifies changes between the funding year 2024 and the proposed funding year 2025 ESL, and seeks comment on whether it should adopt or modify these changes.

• The proposed ESL revises the description of “wireless” service under Category One to read “Wireless (e.g., fixed wireless; microwave; mobile service for use on school buses; or mobile service for use with Wi-Fi hotspots).”  This revision reflects the FCC’s adoption of a Report and Order making eligible the off-premises use of Wi-Fi hotspots and mobile wireless Internet access services.
• The proposed ESL amends the explanation of “Wireless services and wireless Internet access” in the “Eligibility Explanations for Certain Category One and Category Two Services” to clarify a number of issues from the Wi-Fi Hotspot Report and Order.