220317 Reply Comments Universal Service Fund FCC

Published

March 23, 2022

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Dear Ms. Dortch:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce (“the Chamber”) appreciates the opportunity to submit reply comments on the Federal Communications Commission’s (“the Commission”) Notice of Inquiry on the above referenced proceeding (“Notice”) to study the future of Universal Service Fund (“USF”) and to identify policy solutions for Congress and the Commission to take to close the digital divide for all Americans (1).

As many commenters have correctly noted, the USF is in dire financial straits and requires fundamental reform to stabilize USF programs (2). This Notice represents an important first step to stabilize the USF. The Chamber urges the Commission, and policymakers, to thoughtfully consider the range of proposed policy solutions and fully understand the impacts of all proposals on statutory USF objectives, digital innovation, and American global competitiveness.

(1) Report on the Future of the Universal Service Fund, Notice of Inquiry, FCC-21-127 (rel. Dec. 15, 2021) (Notice).

(2) See AT&T Comments at 1; Public Knowledge comments at 18-19; INCOMPAS comments at 14.

Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this proceeding and working to identify solutions to stabilize the USF. If you have any follow up questions, I may be reached at 202-463-5973 or by e-mail at mfurlow@uschamber.com.

Sincerely,

Matt Furlow

Policy Director

Chamber Technology Engagement Center

U.S. Chamber of Commerce