On Thursday, March 27, the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee met with the Federal Communications Commission to discuss their FY2015 budget request. This year's FCC budget request asks for additional money for technology upgrades to make the agency more efficient and additional staff to enhance enforcement of the E-Rate and Lifeline programs that have shown signs of waste, fraud and abuse. During the hearing, Sen. Moran had an opportunity to question FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler and Commissioner Ajit Pai about rural broadband, the future of Universal Service and the Connect America Fund, and the upcoming broadcaster incentive auction, which will make new airwaves available for mobile broadband services. Access to affordable broadband is critical for every Kansas community.
