Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison made the following comment today regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) vote to reform the Universal Service Fund (USF):

“The FCC should be commended today for reforming the USF and the intercarrier compensation regime.  These programs have needed to be updated for many years, and today’s action is a major step toward modernizing both regimes for the broadband era.  While I have not seen the order, I am glad to hear that it keeps the USF focused on bringing critical communication services to unserved parts of the nation.  I also appreciate the FCC’s emphasis on halting the USF’s unsustainable growth.

“I understand the FCC still has more work to do on completing the USF reform process.  To avoid any disruption to consumers, it is critical for the FCC to ensure that the transition to the new regime is predictable and gradual so providers have adequate time to plan for and adapt to the new system.  I hope the FCC will move quickly to provide the regulatory certainty that broadband providers need so they can invest in rural America.  That also means addressing the contribution side of the USF program.  I look forward to working with the FCC and other stakeholders to ensure that the USF continues its important role in connecting our rural communities in Texas and throughout the country.” 

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