As the FCC draws closer to the October 27 vote on Chairman Julius Genachowski’s plan to overhaul the Universal Service Fund (USF), four Democratic lawmakers urged the FCC to focus broadband Internet expansion efforts to improving access in crucial locations such as schools and health clinics. Representatives Doris Matsui, Anna Eshoo, Edward Markey, and Mike Doyle argued that citizens in unserved and underserved communities are likely to turn to the “anchor institutions” to access the Internet.

“The FCC should recognize the unique needs of these institutions and should consider ways to require broadband providers that receive USF support to build out broadband networks in rural areas. This will ensure anchor institutions have the high-speed Internet access they need to enrich their communities and stimulate economic growth across the nation,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to Genachowski.

In addition to providing access to community facilities, it is critical to invest in broadband infrastructure and technology to provide high-speed Internet to all homes across America. Over the past three years, broadband providers have invested more than $250 billion in broadband expansion and deployment.

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