The Future of the Universal Service Fund and Related Broadband Programs (CRS Report for Congress)
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| Release Date |
Revised March 1, 2024 |
| Report Number |
R47621 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Patricia Moloney Figliola; Brian E. Humphreys; Colby Leigh Rachfal |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
Universal service is the principle that all Americans should have access to communications
services. It is the cornerstone of the Communications Act of 1934 (P.L. 73-416) the law that
established the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC is an independent federal
agency charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television,
wire, satellite, and cable.
Since the enactment of the Communications Act, universal service policies and programs have
helped to make telephone service available nationwide, including in rural areas. The
Telecommunications Act of 1996 (P.L. 104-104) expanded the focus of universal service,
amending the Communications Act, to include access to advanced telecommunications and
information services, including high-speed (e.g., broadband) internet service to homes, schools,
and businesses especially in rural and high cost areas, and to low-income individuals.
