1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the “Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act of 2021”.
Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act of 2021
A BILL
To require the Federal Communications Commission to reform the contribution system of the Universal Service Fund, and for other purposes.
2. Study and report
Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Federal Communications Commission (referred to in this Act as the “Commission”) shall—
conduct a study assessing the need to expand the contribution base of the Universal Service Fund to ensure that the contribution requirement under section 254(d) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 254(d)) is imposed fairly and equitably; and
submit to Congress a report on the results of the study conducted under paragraph (1).
3. Universal service fund contribution system reform
In general— Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall complete a rulemaking to reform the contribution system of the Universal Service Fund, including by expanding the contribution base of the Universal Service Fund.
Considerations— In conducting the rulemaking required under subsection (a), the Commission shall consider—
the relative equities and burdens of the proposed changes to the contribution system of the Universal Service Fund with respect to consumers and businesses;
the impact of the proposed changes to the contribution system of the Universal Service Fund on seniors; and
the findings and recommendations in the report submitted under section 2(2).