We all benefit from the
Universal Service Fund

For years, community-based communication companies have been providing telephone services to remote and rugged areas in rural America. Today, those services have expanded to wireless services, Internet access, and video.

Thanks to the Universal Service Fund (USF), a cost-recovery mechanism that enables small, independent telecommunication companies to deliver affordable services, consumers have access to the latest technologies. Without the USF, millions of consumers would be unable to afford the communication services that keep us all connected.

Congress must preserve the USF to ensure continued access to affordable telecom services. Restrictions or funding caps will only hinder new investments.

How can I help?

• Enjoy the video and learn more about the Universal Service Fund.
• Tell others! E-mail this link to family and friends.
• Contact your senator and urge him or her to push for a Senate floor vote on Senator Stevens’ communications bill (HR 5252).

Universal Service Fund Key Facts

• Regardless of where you live, you have a legally-protected right to affordable telecommunications services.
• The USF ensures all Americans have comparable access and costs for communications services.
• As a result of the USF, more than 94% of Americans subscribe to telephone service.
• The USF includes programs that focus on sparsely-populated areas, individuals with lower incomes, schools and libraries, and rural healthcare.
• Rural companies have invested more than $80 billion to build, operate and maintain their networks.
• Rural companies provide more than 30,000 full-time, high-paying jobs.