USTelecom to Congress: The Time for Bold Universal Service Reform is Now

USTelecom – The Broadband Association submitted formal comments to the bipartisan Universal Service Fund Working Group, urging Congress to seize this pivotal moment to modernize the USF and safeguard universal connectivity for the 21st century. USTelecom’s call to action underscores four core imperatives:

• Broadband at the Center of Universal Service: USF programs must be fully reoriented around broadband connectivity.
• An Equitable and Sustainable Funding Base: Without Congressional action to broaden the base of contributors—including the tech platforms that profit most from connectivity—the contribution factor could soon soar above 40 percent.
• Coordination, Not Duplication: Historic federal investments like the $42.5 billion BEAD program must work in tandem with USF where necessary, ensuring Universal Service funds are used to maintain and upgrade the networks built with BEAD resources.
• Accountability and Transparency: Every dollar must advance universal connectivity, with clear goals, performance metrics, and oversight to protect consumers and contributors alike.