US Schools Protest FCC’s Plan to End E‑Rate Internet Subsidy

Schools and libraries nationwide have urged the Federal Communications Commission to abandon its proposal to end or reduce the E‑Rate program, a $2 billion‑a‑year subsidy that provides discounted internet access and equipment to educational institutions. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr criticized districts for “experimenting with a massive increase in screen time” and argued that E‑Rate has expanded beyond its original purpose of supporting basic internet connectivity for educational use. In June, Carr secured a 2‑1 vote to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would limit or sunset the program, potentially cutting discounts and imposing stricter usage restrictions. The NPRM’s release has sparked a nationwide protest, as stakeholders fear the loss of essential connectivity for students and library patrons.