Washington, DC - As the COVID-19 outbreak continues, Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR) and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Republican Leader Bob Latta (R-OH) comment on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s decision to waive the E-Rate and Rural Health Care program gift rules, which will make it easier for broadband providers to support telehealth and remote learning.
“The need to bridge the digital divide is more evident than ever as Americans adjust their daily routines during COVID-19. Waiving E-Rate and Rural Health Care gift rules will help allow schools, libraries, and health care providers to more easily access broadband devices, WiFi hotspots, and other important equipment to connect people for work, school, and health care. We applaud the FCC for taking steps to alleviate barriers during this public health crisis, and we are also reminded that there is much more to be done. We must do all that we can to provide an immediate impact across local communities as we work towards long-term policies to close the digital divide," Walden and Latta said.
