FCC Extends E-rate and RHC Gift Rule Waivers

Yesterday, the Wireline Competition Bureau released an Order extending its waivers of the Rural Healthcare and E-Rate program gift rules through June 30, 2021.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and program participants’ continued need for connectivity, the Bureau found good cause to extend the gift rule waivers through the end of funding year 2020.  The temporary waivers permit health care providers, schools, and libraries to solicit and accept offers for improved broadband connections or equipment for telehealth or remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Bureau’s previous waivers of the gift rules were set to expire on December 31, 2020.  

The Bureau did not extend waivers for time to respond to USAC for either program.  On September 3, the Bureau extended those waivers from a September 30 expiration to a December 31 expiration.