NTCA Submits Recommendations on Universal Service Updates to Congress

NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association and 21 state broadband associations submitted recommendations to the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional Universal Service Fund (USF) Working Group to guide reforms of the USF to ensure that it will sustain the deployment of robust networks and delivery of reliable services at more affordable rates in rural America.

In the comments, the group emphasizes that the ongoing mission of universal service does not end with the initial deployment of a network. At its essence, the USF addresses four goals: promoting availability, affordability, sustainability and scalability of networks, which the associations say must be kept in mind when considering and pursuing reforms. The associations specifically recommend that the USF Working Group address several issues, including modernizing the contribution mechanism, enhancing the accuracy of broadband maps, improving coordination between the USF programs and other federal broadband programs, and increasing transparency, accountability and efficiency in the administration of the programs.

"Serving deeply rural areas requires a focus both on deploying broadband networks and maintaining and sustaining them," said NTCA CEO Shirley Bloomfield. "The High-Cost USF, if provided sufficient and predictable funding levels, is the only initiative designed to tackle the foundational universal service goals of availability, affordability, sustainability and scalability. As Congress considers the future of universal service, NTCA and our fellow rural broadband associations urge it to keep these goals in focus so that the USF can continue to benefit rural and low-income Americans, schools, libraries and rural healthcare facilities now and for many years to come in an efficient and enduring manner."

The associations' comments can be found here.