Common Sense Media Supports Universal Service Fund in Case Before the Supreme Court
WASHINGTON, DC - March 26, 205 - As the Supreme Court prepares to hear oral arguments in FCC v. Consumers' Research, Common Sense Media expressed its strong support for the continuation of the Universal Service Fund (USF) — an essential support system that helps keep students, families, and rural communities connected to the internet.
The USF supports critical programs that make broadband access more affordable for low-income households, schools, libraries, hospitals, and rural communities. Since its creation in 1996, it has helped ensure that cost isn't a barrier to participation in education, work, or modern life.
"In a time when the internet is more essential than ever, dismantling USF would be devastating," said Amina Fazlullah, Head of Tech Policy Advocacy at Common Sense Media. "Millions of Americans are already at risk of losing connectivity with the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program. We can't afford to lose another foundational support that helps keep low-income households, schools, libraries, and rural communities connected to affordable internet service."
The case before the court challenges the constitutionality of how the USF is structured and funded. But as our partners at Public Knowledge and others have explained in legal filings, USF is fully authorized by Congress and overseen by the Federal Communications Commission — not a private entity. The courts have repeatedly affirmed the FCC's role in managing USF under longstanding law. While updates to USF may be warranted, those changes are already being explored by a bipartisan Congressional working group. That's where reform should happen — not through a court decision that could severely harm or completely erase programs that millions rely on.
Today, Common Sense Media joined allies at the Keep Our Communities Connected rally on Capitol Hill to show support for digital equity and the future of affordable internet access.
For more information about Common Sense Media and its work to support digital equity, visit www.commonsensemedia.org.
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Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users worldwide and 1.3 million educators every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.