This from eRate central, a very nice summary of the recent order, note web
hosting is still OK. Note also #5
Jim
New FCC E-Rate Order
Last Thursday, in an open meeting, the FCC approved a much-anticipated
report and order for an "upgraded and modernized" E-rate program. As of this
past weekend, the full report and order had not been released (presumably
because of last minute fine-tuning), so many of the details of the new rules
are not yet known. Based on the staff presentation at the FCC meeting,
comments by the Commissioners, and a short News Release, the following is a
brief outline of the major changes expected for FY 2011, and some notes on
their implications. Additional information should become available with the
order's release (hopefully early this week) and at the SLD's first fall
training workshop on Thursday.
Applicants will have the option of leasing fiber optic transmission services
from any provider, including non-profit and government agencies, and utility
companies, as long as it is the most cost-effective solution.
Note: The order may include some restrictions on this broadened eligibility,
such as limitations on the costs of new installations.
Community use of school Internet facilities when school is not in session
will be permitted.
Note: This provision is simply a permanent extension of the current waiver
of existing E-rate rules to permit community use of school facilities during
off-hours.
Internet services in residential locations that serve "unique populations"
will now be eligible.
Note: This will extend E-rate coverage to dorm facilities in special needs
schools.
Proposals will be sought for a limited pilot program providing off-campus
wireless connectivity for students.
Note: This will likely be a competitive grant-like program. Much of the
discussion has focused on e-books and interactive learning. A U.S.
Department of Education proposal, if adopted, would mean pilot funding of
$100M, $120M, and $140M over a three year period.
The cap on E-rate funding, currently set at $2.25B per year, would be
indexed to inflation.
Note: The inflation adjustment for FY 2011 would increase the cap by 1%, up
$22.5M.
The technology plan requirements for Priority 1 services will be eliminated.
Note: The initial proposal would have eliminated P1 tech plans only for
applicants subject to state or local tech planning requirements. Based on
several comments received, the FCC has apparently eliminated the P1 tech
plan requirement altogether. Approved tech plans would still be required for
Priority 2 services.
The FCC has codified its requirements for open and fair bidding processes.
In particular, E-rate gift rules parallel those of federal agencies.
Note: A summary of federal rules for Gifts from Outside Sources is available
online.
The FCC adopted the Eligible Services List for 2011.
Note: The new ESL reinstates dark fiber as an eligible service and retains
the eligibility of Web hosting. Adoption of the 2011 ESL is a condition for
opening the application window for FY 2011.
Based on information released to date, the new order apparently does not, at
least in the short-term, implement other NPRM-proposals such as changes to
the discount rate matrix or Internal Connections eligibility. Form 470/471
and CIPA changes were not mentioned (but are expected), nor was any
indication of rules governing the disposal of obsolete equipment.
Sent from my iPad
Cell 773.396.4638
Chicago 773.463.5494
Beaver Island 231.448.2109
Privacy Notice: The information contained in this electronic message is
intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is
addressed. This message is private and may contain information that is
privileged, confidential and/or inside information and exempt from
disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you
are notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this
communication is strictly prohibited. Please contact the sender by reply
e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message
| Subscription info at http://www.tech-geeks.org |
