FBA Files Reply Comments on the Future of the USF High-Cost Program

September 3, 2026 — The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) released the following statement today after filing reply comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on the future of the Universal Service Fund’s (USF) High-Cost Program:

“The High-Cost Program continues to play an important role in bringing reliable broadband and voice service to rural communities, connecting Americans to education, telehealth, and economic opportunity. As broadband needs continue to grow, all Americans should have access to reliable, high-performing broadband, regardless of where they live, and its standards must keep pace with how people use broadband today.

“As the FCC considers the future of the program, FBA urges the Commission to look beyond speed alone and consider factors such as latency, reliability, and overall network performance. These standards should reflect the level of service consumers rely on in their everyday lives, and the demands networks will need to support in the years ahead.

“The Commission should verify that rural communities are receiving real, consistently achieved, high-quality service before reducing or eliminating support. Reported coverage alone does not necessarily mean a provider can consistently deliver the reliable, high-quality service those communities need.

“FBA supports continuing existing A-CAM and CAF-BLS funding while the FCC develops a longer-term framework for the High-Cost Program, helping underserved areas maintain access to critical support.

“We appreciate the FCC’s continued work to modernize the program and look forward to further engagement with the Commission to advance reliable connectivity for rural communities across the country.”

Read the Comments Here: FBA Reply Comments – High Cost USF NPRM 09032026