FCC Rethinks School Internet Subsidies Over Screen Time Concerns

The agency has been subsidizing connectivity to and within schools for almost 30 years, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr testifies before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington on May 21, 2025. John McDonnell/Getty Images

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is reviewing its internet subsidy program for schools amid concerns that excessive screen time ⁠for children is linked to poor educational outcomes.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said in a June 3 statement that the ​commission is launching a comprehensive review of the $3 billion E-Rate program.