Bill > S1651

This bill seeks to reform the Universal Service Fund (USF), a federal program that helps ensure affordable telecommunications services across the United States, by expanding the contributor base to include broadband internet providers and "edge providers" (such as digital advertising services, social media platforms, streaming services, and other online content providers). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) would be required to complete a rulemaking within 18 months to establish a more equitable contribution system, with exemptions for smaller providers who transmit less than 3% of U.S. broadband data or earn less than $5 billion annually. The bill also directs the FCC to create a new mechanism within the high-cost program of the Universal Service Fund to provide more predictable financial support for broadband providers operating in high-cost areas, ensuring that only one eligible telecommunications carrier per area can receive such support. The legislation aims to reduce the financial burden on consumers by diversifying the funding sources for universal service while maintaining existing regulatory frameworks, and explicitly states that it does not grant the FCC new authority over broadband providers or edge providers beyond the specific provisions outlined in the bill.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1651/all-info