Extending the Universal Service Fund to broadband won’t be easy but...

part of the FCC’s National Broadband Plan, released in March. “It’s never easy when you discuss reforming a system that many have come to rely upon,” Clyburn said late Friday. “But what the plan recognizes is that our current system just isn’t very efficient. We can do better, and we need to make the most out of the system we have.” She noted that according to the plan 14-24 million Americans lack access to broadband. “There are those who say we should be satisfied that 95 percent of American households have at least one wireline broadband provider available,” Clyburn said. “If you haven’t heard, I don’t fall into that camp. I believe it is imperative to provide every single American household the opportunity to connect so that they can fully participate in the digital world.” She said she expects the FCC to take up next month a proposal for a broadband mobility fund. “Wireless consumers expect to have coverage, no matter their location,” Clyburn said. “While certain geographical and topographical barriers may be too difficult to overcome in the short-run, that is not the case for all unserved areas.” She also emphasized that academics have an important role at the FCC. “Through observation and study, we can better assess our choices -- make modifications as necessary -- and further improve our policies to better serve the American people,” she said.