Few Changes Made to ECF Rules

The FCC made few changes to its Emergency Connectivity Fund rules from the draft (see 2104300084), our analysis found. The application filing window was modified to prioritize prospective purchases, with an additional round if it's determined that more funding for prospective purchases is necessary. The commission moved up the program's start date to May 1, 2020, as sought by education advocates (see 2105050052). The rules in Wednesday's Daily Digest gave limited exceptions to buy datacasting services. The commission is "including datacasting among the technologies eligible for funding,” said America’s Public Television Stations CEO Patrick Butler. “The unanimous endorsement of datacasting by members of the Commission is a powerful testament to the value of this technology in bridging the 'homework gap.'” Rules take effect upon Federal Register publication. Meanwhile, the emergency broadband benefit program started Wednesday (see 2102250066). “This program will have a tremendous, positive impact on so many American households,” said acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.