The Future of the USF: Opportunities and Challenges

A congressional staff briefing on the Universal Service Fund (USF). Snacks and beverages will be provided.

Our panelists — Roslyn Layton (Strand Consult,) Ernie Rasmussen (Bigfoot Communications,) and Michael Romano (NTCA), will explore the role the USF plays in universal service, how BEAD implementation and the upcoming Supreme Court review of the Consumers’ Research case could shape broadband accessibility and affordability, and the role Congress may play in deciding the USF’s future

Key discussion points include:

• How BEAD implementation and upcoming Supreme Court rulings could affect the USF and broader connectivity efforts.
• The technological and affordability challenges that continue to hinder economic growth and access in rural and Tribal regions—and how the USF can help.
• Proposed USF reforms, including potential changes to funding mechanisms, distribution, and eligibility.

We look forward to your participation.

Cosponsoring Organizations:
The Communications Workers of America, The Digital Progress Institute, The National Digital Inclusion Alliance, and The Open Technology Institute of New America.

Speakers:
Roslyn Layton, PhD: Roslyn Layton serves as Executive Vice President at Strand Consult. Dr. Layton helps nations close the digital divide and improve broadband affordability with policy to broaden the base of contributions and improve business models. Roslyn has served in a wide array of public service roles, including on the President-Elect Transition Team for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). She is also a Visiting Researcher at Aalborg University.

Ernie Rasmussen: A citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Mr. Rasmussen currently serves as the Executive Director for Bigfoot Communications of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. With over 30 years dedicated to serving Tribal Nations, he’s worked to build digital access for across the public and private sectors; including serving as Tribal Liaison at the Washington State Department of Commerce and as senior planner of economic development with The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.

Michael Romano: Michael Romano serves as NTCA’s Executive Vice President, overseeing their public policy and business development initiatives, the educational and community-focused mission of the Foundation for Rural Service, and several areas of association operations. Before joining NTCA, Mike was of counsel with Bingham McCutchen, LLP (now Morgan Lewis), served as the founding vice president and general counsel of GTT Communications.

Moderator: Nat Purser, Policy Advocate at Public Knowledge