The commission now requires companies receiving Connect America funding for rural fixed broadband to provide speeds of at least 10 Mbps downstream and 1 Mbps upstream. The previous requirement, set in 2011, was 4 Mbps downstream and 1 Mbps upstream.
To make more E-rate funding available for libraries and schools to purchase broadband connectivity capable of delivering gigabit service over the next five years, the FCC has raised the spending cap on the E-rate program from the current $2.4 billion to $3.9 billion. The order is also intended to let schools and libraries build high-speed broadband facilities themselves when that is the most cost-effective option, subject to certain requirements.
The NCTA applauded the intent of both orders, but expressed misgivings about spending oversight.