Story perspectives

FCC Votes to End School Bus Wi-Fi Funding, Sparks Outrage

10/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 2-1 to end E-Rate funding for school bus Wi-Fi and hotspot lending programs launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr called the move an overreach by the prior administration, saying E-Rate is for classroom use only.
Opponents say the rollback harms students without internet access, especially in rural areas.
The American Library Association expressed disappointment, noting the program bridged the digital divide.

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Story summary

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 2-1 to end E-Rate funding for school bus Wi-Fi and hotspot lending programs launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr called the move an overreach by the prior administration, saying E-Rate is for classroom use only.
Opponents say the rollback harms students without internet access, especially in rural areas.
The American Library Association expressed disappointment, noting the program bridged the digital divide.