The Universal Service Fund (USF): What Is It and Why Is It Important?
The USF is a government program which is critical to getting, and keeping, rural consumers connected to high quality, affordable communication services. As for the history behind USF, prior to the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the USF operated as a mechanism interstate long distance carriers were charged to subsidize telephone service to low-income households and high-cost areas.
The Communications Act of 1934 stated “all people in the United States shall have access to rapid, efficient, nationwide communications service with adequate facilities at reasonable charges.”
To learn more about USF, the four mechanisms of support, and why USF support is important, click here.
