September 15, 2025
Congress Must Modernize the Universal Service Fund to Sustain Broadband Access and Protect Consumers
Washington, D.C. (September 15, 2025) – USTelecom – The Broadband Association today submitted formal comments to the bipartisan Universal Service Fund (USF) Working Group, urging Congress to seize this pivotal moment to modernize the USF and safeguard universal connectivity for the 21st century.
“For decades, the USF has been the indispensable engine driving America’s progress—connecting homes, schools, hospitals, libraries, and businesses in every corner of the country,” said Jonathan Spalter, President and CEO of USTelecom. “But today, that engine is in need of a long overdue tune up. Without urgent reform, rural communities could be left behind, forcing consumers to pay more, and threatening the very networks that power America’s innovation economy.”
USTelecom’s call to action underscores four core imperatives:
- Broadband at the Center of Universal Service: USF programs must be fully reoriented around broadband connectivity.
- An Equitable and Sustainable Funding Base: Without Congressional action to broaden the base of contributors—including the tech platforms that profit most from connectivity—the contribution factor could soon soar above 40%.
- Coordination, Not Duplication: Historic federal investments like the $42.5 billion BEAD program must work in tandem with USF where necessary, ensuring Universal Service funds are used to maintain and upgrade the networks built with BEAD resources.
- Accountability and Transparency: Every dollar must advance universal connectivity, with clear goals, performance metrics, and oversight to protect consumers and contributors alike.
Spalter added: “Expanding the USF contribution base is about securing America’s connected future. Broadband is the backbone of modern life, enabling everything from remote learning and telehealth to cloud computing and artificial intelligence. It’s time the trillion-dollar companies that have profited the most as users of these networks join broadband at the table to be part of the solution. We thank Senators Fischer and Luján for their leadership and stand ready to roll up our sleeves to get this done. The time for bold reform is now.”
USTelecom and its members have been on the frontlines of universal service for decades, investing billions in private capital alongside USF support to connect America’s hardest-to-reach communities. Modernizing the fund is essential—not only to preserve progress, but to finish the job of closing the digital divide once and for all.