WTA Supports Introduction of Legislation to Require FCC to Address USF Contributions Modernization

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 22, 2021) – WTA – Advocates for Rural Broadband supports bipartisan legislation, S. 3236, introduced by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Thune (R-SD), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) to require the FCC to complete a study and rulemaking on modernizing the Universal Service Fund (USF) contributions system.

“The current USF contribution mechanism is outdated and is based on revenue from long- distance telephone service which doesn’t reflect today’s broadband world. There isn’t anyone who doesn’t think it’s not antiquated,” said Derrick Owens, Senior Vice President of Government & Industry Affairs. “The contributions factor continues to rise, and this is not expected to change unless the FCC acts. We encourage the FCC and Congress to work together to find a solution so that the responsibility of contributing to the Fund is spread equitability among those who benefit from the broadband network. We applaud this bipartisan group of Senators for their efforts in spurring the FCC to action. We look forward to working with them and their colleagues in the House of Representatives to address this issue.”