FCC Releases FNPRM On USF Contribution Reform

On April 30, 2012, the FCC released the text of its Universal Service Fund ("USF") Contribution Mechanism Reform Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking ("FNPRM"). The 182-page FNPRM seeks comment on a wide scope of alternatives to the current revenues-based contribution mechanism, and does not propose the adoption of a specific plan. Among the issues raised for comment in the FNPRM are a set of alternative contribution mechanisms (including numbers-based and connections-based mechanisms), the expansion of the pool of required contributors, and the administration of the Fund.

Specifically the FCC seeks comment on:

• The goals of USF contribution reform, with a particular emphasis on issues relating to efficiency, fairness, and sustainability;