MADISON, WI. — Last month, the Federal Communications Commission advanced a proposal to limit or terminate E-Rate, the $2-billion federal program that helps cover internet and technology costs for libraries and schools.
Representative Randy Udell (D-47th District) released the following statement:
“For nearly thirty years, E-Rate held bipartisan support as it helped schools and libraries afford technology and internet nationwide. In Wisconsin, it funds BadgerNet, which provides internet access to public and educational facilities throughout the state.
“This program also helps libraries and schools purchase network equipment, such a routers and wireless access points, so that our kids and communities can have safe and reliable internet access. In the modern world, this access is essential for everything, whether job hunting, completing homework, or accessing government documents.
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“Libraries and schools are vital community centers. It is ludicrous that the federal government won’t end Trump’s pointless war with over $100 billion in direct and indirect costs, yet they are considering cutting a $2 billion program that directly benefits our communities and kids nationwide.”
