House Commerce Leaders, FCC Seek Telehealth Remote Learning Funds in COVID-19 Aid Bill
The FCC and House Commerce Committee leaders say they’re pushing for remote learning and telehealth funding to be included in a third legislative package aimed at economic losses and a possible recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Senate Democrats have…
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been pushing for additional funding legislation to address pandemic-related infrastructure issues, including broadband capacity and distance learning resources (see 2003180066). Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., was expected to unveil a separate proposal for the funding bill late Thursday. The FCC wants funding for “in-home devices for use by teachers, students, and patients,” something "the Communications Act does not authorize the FCC to subsidize," a spokesperson said. The House Appropriations Committee is considering telehealth funding as part of the next legislative package, a spokesperson said. House Commerce is “examining all options to ensure that all Americans have the connectivity they need throughout this crisis,” said Communications Subcommittee Chairman Mike Doyle, D-Pa., in a statement. Committee Republicans are also “working with the FCC to figure out how we can use our resources most effectively for those who need them most as we work towards long-term policies to close the digital divide,” a spokesperson said.