Passed House·Last action 2 days ago

Broadband applicants would face tougher screening for rural FCC funds

Officially: Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2025

Companies seeking new FCC high-cost broadband funds would have to clear a stricter screening process first. They would need to prove they can build and run the network, and they could face steep penalties for early defaults.

Where it stands

Passed House. Now before the Senate.

This is the moment to act.

What this bill actually does

The FCC would have to start writing new screening rules within 180 days. Those rules would cover applicants and other recipients seeking new high-cost universal service funding awards.
Applicants would have to prove they can do the job before they get covered funding. They would need to show enough technical skill, money, and operating ability, plus a reasonable business plan.
The FCC would have to review applications using established standards. That includes existing technical standards from its Digital Opportunity Data Collection orders, or any replacement system used later.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill passed the House and is now before the Senate — this is the moment to act.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

✓

Introduced

Introduced in Senate

—

✓

Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

—

✓

Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

—

✓

Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

—

●

House Review

Sent to House for consideration

Latest: Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2977) (4/20/2026)

APR 20

○

Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

—

○

Signed into Law

Signed by the President

—

For more detail

Menu

Broadband applicants would face tougher screening for rural FCC funds

Legislative timeline

Read deeper