Summary

Requires the Federal Communications Commission to change how the Universal Service Fund is paid for so that broadband providers and online “edge” providers help fund programs that make broadband more affordable. The FCC must finish rulemakings within 18 months to expand who contributes to the fund and to create high-cost support for eligible broadband carriers, with some exemptions, limits, and enforcement under existing Communications Act authorities.

Key Points

• Directs the FCC to expand the Universal Service Fund contribution base to include broadband and edge providers.
• Requires the FCC to complete rulemakings within 18 months to implement contribution and support changes.
• Creates authority for USF high-cost support to be extended to eligible broadband carriers.
• Leaves detailed definitions, exemptions, and contribution formulas to FCC rulemaking.
• Enforcement of new contribution obligations will use the FCC's existing Communications Act authorities and penalties.
• Does not immediately appropriate funds or set exact payment levels—those will come from FCC rules.
• May shift some funding responsibility from traditional contributors to online platforms and broadband companies.
• Could lead to stakeholder comment, regulatory complexity, and potential legal challenges during implementation.

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