Comments to FCC Regarding an Emergency Expansion of E-Rate Funding

ITIF filed comments supporting an expansion of the E-Rate program to help address the homework gap during the pandemic. The Commission has the clear authority to augment the program, especially in the face of unprecedented changes to the typical learning environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. ITIF argued that E-Rate support must be used effectively, as its funding source cannot sustain large increases in spending. The Commission should expand supported services with low-cost, technology-neutral tools to connect to existing networks, and not allow funds to build out new facilities to students homes.