Save E-Rate and Keep Internet Access Affordable

Congress created E-Rate in 1996 to make internet access affordable for schools and libraries at a time when [only 14%](https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/universal-service-program-schools-and-libraries-e-rate) were online. E-Rate gives schools and libraries discounts of 20 to 90% on internet service and equipment, with the deepest discounts going to those serving the most low-income students. It typically [distributes more than $2 billion a year](https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/06/fcc-may-kill-2b-program-that-connects-schools-and-libraries-to-internet/) and supports over 12,500 libraries and 106,000 schools nationwide. Now that most libraries and schools have broadband internet access, the FCC is [weighing whether to scale back or end the program.](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/08/14/2026-16590/fcc-to-review-e-rate-program-to-ensure-congresss-vision) The [FCC voted 2-1 to launch a broad review of the program](https://www.fundsforlearning.com/news/a-review-of-e-rate-is-launched-your-filings-and-deadlines-are-not-affected/) and decide whether E-Rate should be eliminated, [citing concerns about screen time](https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/FCC-26-41A2.pdf) as a reason. They also floated limiting support to rural areas or places with only one internet provider, and phasing out funding in areas with lower school lunch participation. Getting connected was never a one-time cost and without E-Rate, schools and libraries would have to cut staff and services [to cover their massive bills.](https://www.npr.org/2026/07/10/nx-s1-5878405/fcc-erate-schools-internet-discount) School districts in San Bernardino County, California pay tens of thousands of dollars a month for internet, and a remote Alaska district with just under 400 students spends more than half a million dollars a year to connect six schools. The success of E-Rate is not a good reason to end the program. Urge Congress to press the FCC to keep this program intact. You can also [submit a public comment to the FCC](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/08/14/2026-16590/fcc-to-review-e-rate-program-to-ensure-congresss-vision) through October 13. What to say when you call: Hi, my name is **[NAME]** and I’m a constituent from [CITY, ZIP]. I'm calling to ask [REP/SEN NAME] to urge the FCC to protect the E-Rate program. E-Rate keeps internet access affordable for schools and libraries across the nation and ending it would threaten essential services, especially in rural and low-income communities. Thank you for your time and consideration. **IF LEAVING VOICEMAIL:** Please leave your full street address to ensure your call is tallied.