Tech Policy
Joint Center Applauds Supreme Court Ruling Upholding Universal Service Fund Programs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 2, 2025
Contact:
Kennedy Fortner, kennedy.fortner@jointcenter.
Joint Center Applauds Supreme Court Ruling Upholding Universal Service Fund Programs
In response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision upholding the constitutionality of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) administration of the Universal Service Fund (USF), the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies issued the following statement applauding the decision:
“This ruling secures the constitutionality of the USF and the FCC’s role in administering it under congressional authority,” said Danielle Davis, Esq., director of Technology Policy at the Joint Center. “As a former Assistant General Counsel for USAC, I’ve seen firsthand how USF programs remain among the federal government’s most effective tools for advancing digital inclusion — supporting connectivity in homes, schools, libraries, and healthcare institutions across underserved communities. Now that the Affordable Connectivity Program has ended, these long-standing programs are more than just essential; they are foundational to ensuring Black, rural, and low-income communities are not left behind in the digital age.”
In a 6–3 opinion, authored by Justice Elena Kagan, the Court found that Congress provided adequate statutory guidance for the FCC’s implementation of the USF and that the delegation of administrative responsibilities to the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) does not violate constitutional principles.
The USF plays a vital role in closing the digital divide, funding key initiatives such as Lifeline, E-Rate, Rural Health Care, and High-Cost support to extend connectivity to low-income, rural, tribal, and educational communities.
“Access to broadband is not a luxury — it’s a necessity for full participation in American life,” said Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, President of the Joint Center. “This Supreme Court decision affirms the legal infrastructure that keeps millions connected, including Black communities where affordability and access remain persistent challenges. As we push for equitable investments in digital infrastructure, the USF must remain a pillar of our national strategy.”
While the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is often mentioned in similar conversations, it is important to clarify that the ACP was not part of the USF. Instead, it was created through a separate congressional appropriation, which expired on June 1, 2024, after Congress declined to extend funding. With ACP no longer in effect, the USF now stands as one of the few remaining federal tools for promoting broadband affordability and access. Programs such as Lifeline — which continues to provide monthly broadband and phone service discounts for eligible low-income households — are now even more critical to ensuring digital inclusion.
The Joint Center remains committed to advancing policies that ensure all communities, especially those historically excluded, such as Black communities, have affordable, reliable access to the digital tools they need to thrive.
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About the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies
The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, America’s Black think tank, provides compelling and actionable policy solutions to eradicate persistent and evolving barriers to the full freedom of Black people in America. We are the trusted forum for leading experts and scholars to participate in major public policy debates and promote ideas that advance Black communities. We use evidence-based research, analysis, convenings, and strategic communications to support Black communities and a network of allies.
