FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today, the Federal Communications Commission held its open meeting where it addressed its proposals to modernize the Universal Service Fund (USF)- the government program designed to connect every American to basic telephone service.
The Center for Media Justice and Media Action Grassroots Network (MAG-Net) have followed the proposed reforms carefully. As recently as last week, 28 MAG-Net members joined a letter authored by the Center for Media Justice, The Utility Reform Network (TURN), and the Center for Social Inclusion (CSI), urging the FCC to “consider the potentially devastating impact USF reform could have on customers who lack affordable telephone, broadband, and mobile wireless services provided on equitable terms.”
On the FCC’s plan for revamping the Universal Service Fund, Center for Media Justice’s Media Policy Field Director, amalia deloney made the following statement:
“We’re glad the Commission did not approve the industry authored ABC plan, and that they’re moving forward with plans to expand broadband service. However, we’re disappointed to learn the Commission has voted to allow carriers to impose new charges on local phone subscribers. While the rate increase has been narrowed, any increase that comes from the pockets of everyday Americans is an unfair burden for people who are already working long hours for little pay—if they are working at all. This is particularly true when we know the companies are bringing in massive revenues. We are the 99 percent, and we believe prices should be going down, not up.”
Betty Yu, MAG-Net Coordinator added, “Across the country the Occupy Wall Street Movement is drawing attention to the 99 percent of the country that face everyday challenges with job, housing, and economic security—often forced to choose between groceries and rent. Tied to these every day struggles are concerns about affordable access to telephone and Internet services for education, healthcare, employment and organizing. We’ll continue to work with the FCC to ensure the voices of these community members are heard.”
Of particular concern to Center for Media Justice and MAG-Net are the members of a number of historically underserved and marginalized populations including communities of color; residents of rural areas and underserved native lands; elderly individuals, as well as young persons and students; job-seekers, low income earners, and public benefits recipients; and imprisoned individuals and their families.
**Founded in 2002, the Center for Media Justice is a dynamic progressive communications strategy and media policy tank for grassroots organizations serving communities of color and America’s poor. Our mission is to create media and cultural conditions that strengthen movements for racial justice, economic equity, and human rights.**