FCC Commissioner Says USF Reform to Begin This Year

FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn told an audience of telecom policy researchers that she expects the commission will launch its reform of the Universal Service Fund (USF) this year.

Clyburn reminded the audience the USF was instrumental in rooting telephone service in communities across America, particularly in low income and rural areas, and said it should be retooled to do the same for broadband Internet.

According to Commissioner Clyburn:

Before the end of the year, I am expecting that the Commission will begin a proceeding to address wholesale reform of the Universal Service Fund to support broadband in hard-to-serve areas.

The Communications Workers of America has long supported reform of the Universal Service Fund.

Prepared Remarks of FCC Commissioenr Mignon L. Clyburn (FCC)