Following the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) authority to administer the Universal Service Fund (USF or Fund), a bipartisan, bicameral group of members of Congress are taking tangible steps towards potential USF reform. In an effort to evaluate and propose potential reforms to the USF with the goal of developing a forum to guide education, awareness, and policymaking, the Congressional USF working group is currently seeking public input on how best to re-shape the Fund going forward to ensure the long-term effectiveness of each USF program.
Earlier this month, Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) announced the launch of the USF working group’s public comment portal. Interested parties, whether individuals or organizations, have an opportunity to provide initial responses to help guide Congress as it reviews the structure, priorities, and implementation strategy of the Fund. The questionnaire directs respondents to share their input on specific topics concerning the effectiveness of existing programs and considerations for reform, including: