Congressional

The group serves as a discussion forum to craft and advocate for policies that support the continued flow of funds through the Universal Service Fund to support the needs of anchor institutions and their surrounding communities.

February Meeting Summary

The Congressional policy group discussed federal broadband policy priorities, including increased scrutiny of E-Rate funding, potential fraud concerns, and SHLB’s plans to engage the FCC and advocate during their Fly-In. Key discussions also covered broadband mapping legislation, ongoing monitoring of BEAD program implementation challenges—especially adoption—and emerging policy issues like age verification and screen time. Overall, there is strong federal interest in oversight, accuracy of data, and ensuring broadband programs are effectively implemented. 

Full meeting notes for this and prior meetings are only available to SHLB  members, and can be accessed here.