Washington, D.C. — Following oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court regarding the future of the Universal Service Fund (USF), the Keep America Connected Coalition issued the below statement as well as a statement from Keep America Connected Coalition advisor and former FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly.
Comment attributable to the Keep America Connected Coalition:
“Today’s SCOTUS arguments underscore what is at stake — USF’s ability to provide critical broadband internet access to rural and remote communities nationwide. Without USF, rural schools, libraries, and healthcare providers will no longer have internet access. That will have direct adverse consequences for Americans of all ages. Members of Congress must not overlook the urgent need to protect USF. It is clear that lawmakers need to swiftly prevent a disruption in USF funding that would hurt millions of Americans and upend the entire telecommunications industry.”
Comment attributable to Keep America Connected Coalition advisor and former FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly:
“After listening to today’s oral arguments, I remain convinced that Congress should prepare a short-term USF solution to address the issues before the court. Supporters of preventing an immediate shutdown of USF heard much to be encouraged by today, but there is no reason for anyone to assume any particular outcome before the court rules.”
For more information, visit KeepAmericaConnectedCoalition.org and follow the Keep America Connected Coalition on X and LinkedIn. Download a nationwide fact sheet here.
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