WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will release $5,358,043 in federal funding to Maine broadband providers through the E-rate program. The funds will be used to deliver high-speed internet access to schools and libraries throughout Maine.

“In today’s high-speed world, there is no commodity more valuable than information, which is why broadband connectivity is more important than ever before – particularly in a rural state like Maine,” Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. “In order for our communities and students to keep pace, schools and libraries need fast and reliable access to the Internet. We’re very pleased that the FCC is releasing these critical funds to help accomplish that.”

The FCC announced the funding as part of a larger $450 million award that will be distributed nationally. The funding comes from the Universal Service Program for Schools and Libraries, more commonly referred to as E-rate. The FCC has been working to modernize the E-rate program, release funds more expeditiously, and provide greater regulatory certainty. Senator King met with FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler last week to champion E-rate and its importance to Maine.

###