Biden Enacts E-rate, CPB Money in COVID-19 Aid Package

President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act COVID-19 budget reconciliation package (HR-1319) Thursday, a day earlier than expected. Biden’s signoff formally allocates some $7-plus billion for emergency E-rate remote learning, along with additional amounts for state-level broadband projects and emergency CPB funding.

Acting FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has welcomed the E-rate move; see here. "Today’s signing of the American Rescue Plan provides the FCC with new tools to support the millions of students locked out of the digital classroom," she said now. "I look forward to implementing this program, so we can help ensure that no child is left offline.”

Biden is, meanwhile, expected to deliver a speech at 8 p.m. EST marking the one-year anniversary of widespread pandemic-related shutdowns. Lobbyists expect this to formally kick off an infrastructure funding legislative push that’s likely to include substantial broadband funding.