Senator Markey Statement on FCC Plan to Review E-Rate Program

Washington (June 4, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission announced that it will vote to open a proceeding to review the E-Rate program, which helps schools and libraries connect to the internet.

"E-Rate is a cornerstone of our nation's commitment to closing the digital divide. I am worried that this FCC review of the program will result in new obstacles to connecting kids to the internet in schools and libraries across the country. Although I share concerns about social media's impact on our young people, it is important to remember that all screen time is not the same, and E-Rate already includes strong safeguards to protect students online. I plan to engage closely to ensure the FCC protects E-Rate, follows the law, and keeps students connected."

In April 2026, the FCC approved a new rule creating additional administrative burdens for schools and libraries to access funds from the E-Rate program. In September 2025, the FCC repealed its rule allowing schools and libraries to use their E-Rate funds to loan Wi-Fi hotspots to students and educators, setting back years of success in ensuring students and educators have access to the internet at home.

Senator Markey is the House author of the original E-Rate program, which has invested more than $69 billion to connect schools and libraries to the internet across the country. Massachusetts schools and libraries have received more than $950 million from the E-Rate program and another $97 million from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a $7 billion program that Senator Markey created within the American Rescue Plan to provide devices and connectivity for students and educators at home.

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