FCC releases funding, starts broadband benefit program to aid schools, libraries, rural and low-income residents
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FCC releases funding, starts broadband benefit program to aid schools, libraries, rural and low-income residents
During the week of May 10, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted a final rule to implement $7.1 billion in funding for the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Program and also launched the $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program. The EBB and ECF were established under the two most recent federal COVID-19 relief packages and aim to provide new technology and broadband internet access to low-income households and libraries and schools in rural or low-income areas. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the digital divide impacting counties across the nation, with rural and low-income students in particular facing barriers to remote learning. The FCC funds represent an important bridge for schools, libraries and low-income households as counties and our federal partners work to implement long-term solutions to the digital divide.