Byron Dorgan: “today my colleagues Senators Smith, Pryor and I are introducing legislation to ensure the sustainability and longevity…”

“today my colleagues Senators Smith, Pryor and I are introducing legislation to ensure the sustainability and longevity of the Universal Service Fund and to support the deployment of broadband to unserved areas. Section 254 of the 1996 Telecommunications Act sets forth the principles of universal service. Section 254 states that all citizens, including rural consumers, deserve access to telecommunications services that are reasonably comparable to those services provided in urban areas, at reasonably comparable rates. This goal to ensure that rural consumers are not left behind continues to be critical, particularly as technology advances in leaps and bounds in this 21st century. Access to a robust communications infrastructure is a necessity for all Americans. Our bill will further that goal in two ways. First, it will ensure that the Federal Communications Commission, FCC, will address reform of universal service and intercarrier compensation to support the cost of a national, quality communications network. Over time, the Universal Service Fund has become increasingly strained, with the burden of support placed on only a limited class of carriers, creating inequities in the system and incentives to avoid contribution. Reform is needed, and our bill directs the FCC to embark upon this reform, with specific guidelines to ensure equity and fairness and continuing sufficient support for networks.…”