Schools across US protest FCC plan that could disconnect kids from Internet
FCC chair threatens E-Rate fund, blames schools for kids' excessive screen time.
Schools and libraries across the United States have urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to abandon plans to terminate the E-Rate program, a $2 billion annual initiative that provides internet access to students and library patrons. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has expressed concern over the excessive screen time that school districts have imposed on students, arguing that the expansion of E-Rate has moved beyond its original intent of supporting basic internet connectivity for educational uses in schools and libraries.
In June, Carr voted with two others to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) soliciting public input on whether E-Rate should be restricted or terminated to align with contemporary connectivity standards. Carr's proposal could lead to reduced discounts for schools and libraries on telecom services and equipment, along with increased limitations on how E-Rate funding can be utilized.
The FCC's request for public comment also hints at the potential for Carr to completely discontinue the E-Rate program.
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