September 17, 2025—America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) submitted comments and proposals to the Bipartisan, Bicameral Universal Service Fund Working Group a regarding the future of USF.
“The USF program plays a vital role in providing connectivity in rural and remote areas and ensuring low-income consumers can afford service,” said Grant Spellmeyer, President and CEO of America’s Communications Association. “We appreciate that the USF Working Group is taking a comprehensive look at the program to ensure it achieves these objectives most effectively over the long-term.”
ACA Connects underscored that, as part of this review, the Working Group should continue to improve broadband mapping, prevent government-supported overbuilding, and foster better coordination among USF programs and across all Federal, state, and local broadband connectivity programs. In addition, ACA Connects urged the working group to comprehensively reassess the role of USF in promoting broadband affordability for low-income households.
Key excerpt:
“As it performs this review, Congress should not lose sight of the fact that broadband in America is a tremendous success story. The vast majority of households, businesses, and institutions have access to multiple providers offering service at competitive rates, and the intensity of competition is bound to increase, further benefiting consumers. Congress and Federal regulators have played an instrumental role in this success by promoting a balanced regulatory environment that has fueled trillions of dollars of private investment. The lesson is clear: The best way to promote connectivity and affordability for all Americans is first and foremost by facilitating entry and competition. The role for USF should be to address those limited situations where unique challenges (e.g., high-costs to serve, income limitations) prevent competition from ensuring universal access and connectivity.”
USF Working Group Comments re the Future of the Universal Service Fund
September 15, 2025
America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) is a trade organization representing about 500 small and medium-sized, independent companies that provide high-speed internet, video, phone, and mobile services covering 29.5 million households. ACA Connects Members operate in every state, providing advanced communications to connect homes, companies, main street, schools, hospitals and more. America’s economic prosperity in smaller communities and rural areas depends on the growth and success of independent operators, who believe a connected nation is a prosperous nation. For more information, visit www.acaconnects.org.