Final rule · 2026-10011

Promoting Fair and Open Competitive Bidding in the E-Rate Program; Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Mechanism

In this document, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission or FCC) takes action to reinforce the success and integrity of the E-Rate program by establishing a competitive bidding portal and document repository to strengthen the E-Rate program's competitive bidding rules as well as other actions to simplify and streamline program processes and procedures for E-Rate participants. In addition, the Commission adopts changes to streamline and simplify the E-Rate program while maintaining the integrity of the program and grant an Order on Reconsideration. These actions will provide greater transparency into the applicants' competitive bidding and bid evaluation and selection processes, and protect the program against waste, fraud, and abuse.