FCC Proposal Would Eliminate $2B School and Library Internet Program
The Federal Communications Commission is weighing the elimination of a $2 billion program that has been instrumental in connecting schools and libraries across the United States to high-speed internet.
The proposal, put forward by Commissioner Carr, cites concerns about screen time as a primary reason for terminating the program. Critics of the move have pushed back against the rationale, accusing Carr of overreach and characterizing his position as an attempt to act as "the nation's parent."
The program has provided critical infrastructure funding that enabled many underserved communities to access educational resources and digital services. Its elimination could significantly impact schools and libraries in rural and low-income areas that rely heavily on this federal support for internet connectivity.
The proposal remains under consideration, with stakeholders urging the FCC to reconsider the potential consequences for educational access and digital equity.