Schools across US protest FCC plan that could disconnect kids from Internet
Summary
Schools and libraries across the US are asking the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to keep the E-Rate program, which provides $2 billion a year to help connect students and library visitors to the Internet. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr proposed reducing or ending the program, saying schools now have enough Internet access, but many groups argue the FCC cannot shut down a program created by Congress.Key Facts
- E-Rate is a $2 billion-a-year program that helps schools and libraries get affordable Internet access.
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr says schools have too much screen time and E-Rate’s mission may be complete.
- Carr’s proposal could cut discounts schools and libraries receive and add new limits on how money is used.
- The FCC voted 2-1 in June to ask the public for opinions on possibly reducing or ending E-Rate.
- Many school and library groups say E-Rate is essential and oppose ending or limiting it.
- The American Library Association states the FCC does not have the legal power to end the program since Congress created it.
- Texas and New York library groups want more funding to improve broadband and support library internet safety.
- The FCC already stopped some E-Rate funding last year for things like Wi-Fi hotspots and on school buses.
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