SHLB’s Year in Review

What a year! SHLB celebrated remarkable achievements on many fronts in 2024, but we also face an uncertain future. From E-rate reforms to pole attachments, cybersecurity, digital equity, the Capitol Projects Fund, and spectrum reform, SHLB had significant wins—capped by our largest and most successful AnchorNets conference in October.

At the same time, challenges loomed: funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stalled, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals delivered an unfavorable ruling on Universal Service funding, and the BEAD program faced delays. The results of November’s elections will usher in a new wave of policymakers with fresh ideas that could shape our work in unpredictable ways.

Key Accomplishments in 2024

• E-rate Funding Milestones: SHLB is particularly excited about the FCC’s decisions to make E-rate funding available for school bus Wi-Fi and hotspots—two of our top priorities. These initiatives promise to bridge the Homework Gap for millions of students and library patrons across the country.

• Cybersecurity Pilot Program: The FCC’s establishment of a new cybersecurity pilot program marks a critical step toward protecting E-rate-funded networks against cyberattacks. This initiative aligns with SHLB’s longstanding advocacy for network security.

• Pole Attachments: In June, SHLB hosted a symposium featuring FCC and NTIA officials to tackle pole attachment challenges and suggest reforms. While the FCC has yet to establish deadlines for large projects involving over 3,000 poles, this event spotlighted the urgency of action.

• Digital Equity Funding: NTIA and states made significant progress in accepting applications for digital equity funding. We expect several awards to be issued early in 2025, furthering our mission to expand connectivity to underserved communities.

• Capitol Projects Fund: As highlighted by Joey Wender at AnchorNets, the Capitol Projects Fund has successfully connected dozens of anchor institutions—a direct result of SHLB’s advocacy.

• Spectrum Advocacy: SHLB actively participated in legislative efforts to increase shared and unlicensed spectrum availability. Although Congress did not restore the FCC’s auction authority, we made a strong case for the role of CBRS and other spectrum in enabling anchor-based wireless broadband services.

Ongoing Challenges

• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Despite connecting 23 million households, Congress failed to appropriate funding to sustain the ACP. This setback underscores the urgent need for continued advocacy.

• Universal Service Fund (USF): The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals deemed the USF funding mechanism unconstitutional, contrasting with favorable rulings from two other circuit courts. SHLB filed a cert petition asking the Supreme Court to review and overturn the Fifth Circuit’s decision, which the Court has agreed to hear. A final decision is anticipated in June 2025. Meanwhile, we continue to collaborate with Congress on long-term solutions to address the growing contribution factor, now at 36.3%.

• BEAD Program Delays: While NTIA has approved all states’ and territories’ initial plans, awardees face environmental and permitting hurdles before deploying networks. These delays highlight the need for streamlined processes to expedite progress.

Looking Ahead

The incoming administration and Congress present opportunities to advance our mission of closing the digital divide. We are optimistic about working with the new FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who shares SHLB’s commitment to fostering competition and economic growth. As we navigate these changes, our dedication to improving connectivity for community anchor institutions remains steadfast.

Here’s to a productive and impactful 2025. Happy New Year!