Bill > S856

This bill, the Funding Affordable Internet with Reliable Contributions Act or the FAIR Contributions Act, requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct a study and submit a report to Congress examining the feasibility of funding the Universal Service Fund (USF) through contributions from edge providers, which are providers of online content or services like search engines, social media platforms, and e-commerce platforms. The study will consider various aspects, including the equity issues of the current and alternative contribution systems, the practical issues of calculating and collecting contributions, the effects on consumer telecommunications bills and the sustainability of the USF, and the legal authority and interaction with existing laws. The report aims to inform Congress on the potential of using edge provider contributions to fund the USF, which supports service to high-cost areas, schools and libraries, rural health care facilities, and the Lifeline program.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/856/all-info