FCC Seeks Comment On Changes To Federal E-Rate Program That Would Facilitate Broadband Deployment

On November 3, 2009, the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") released its Public Notice requesting comment on, among other issues, changes to the schools and libraries universal service support mechanism ("E-Rate Program") to improve broadband deployment to meet the instructional and informational needs of public schools and libraries. The Public Notice is part of the FCC's ongoing proceeding to develop a comprehensive National Broadband Plan, as directed by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. With particular regard to the E-Rate Program, the Public Notice seeks data, reports and case studies addressing its detailed inquiries on:

• E-Rate Program Modifications: Whether the FCC can implement modifications to the E-Rate Program to more effectively meet the needs of E-Rate funding beneficiaries, and to stimulate the global adoption of broadband services within communities, including but not limited to: (i) modifications to the current classes of