WISPA Statement: E-Rate Rules Should Include FWA in Off-premises Uses

The following statement may be attributed to Louis Peraertz, VP of Policy for WISPA – Broadband Without Boundaries:

Washington, DC, July 18, 2024 – The E-Rate program has proven effective in connecting our local schools and students to the Internet.  WISPA supports this successful program.  But in this instance, we believe the Commission lacks the specific authority to provide access beyond the premises of schools and libraries, made more apparent since the Supreme Court’s Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo ruling.  As the Commission proceeds, however, WISPA appreciates the agency’s efforts to mitigate waste, fraud and abuse and limit needless duplication of facilities.  Now that the FCC has adopted rules, we urge the FCC to broaden the scope of eligibility and include technology, such as fixed wireless CBRS, in off-premises uses of E-Rate funding.  Fixed wireless access provides a quick, cost-effective way to deliver reliable Internet access in areas that lack broadband.  This will further the goals of the E-rate program and help more students bridge the homework gap.

Celebrating 20 Years of WISPA – Broadband Without Boundaries
WISPA’s approximately 1000 members provide fixed broadband connectivity and include equipment suppliers, support services, and other industry partners and stakeholders. Our members provide broadband access to millions of residential and business customers in rural, urban, and Tribal areas across America.

Contact
Mike Wendy
WISPA
202-763-5257
mwendy@wispa.org