Some important updates regarding wi-fi hotspots, cybersecurity pilot program participants, and Supreme Court decisions affecting New Yorkers, in particular:
Wi-Fi Hotspots Initial Interest and Potential Threats for FY2025
Early data coming in shows a strong initial interest in wi-fi hotspots and/or hotspot services. Over 700 applicants (including 34 from New York) were received. You can read more at Funds for Learning's website.
E-Rate Central's Win Hemsworth covers the potential threats to E-Rate eligibility in the E-Rate Central Newsletter.
FCC Cybersecurity Pilot Participants Selected
In January, the FCC released their selection of 707 participants in the Cybersecurity Pilot Program. Of the 707, 62 are from New York. Read the FCC's Public Notice.
New York's Affordable Broadband Act in Effect
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the case against NY State's Affordable Broadband Program, which means it has become effective as of January 15th by action of the NYS Public Service Commission. The new law requires internet service providers to provide access to monthly broadband rates of 25mbps for $15 or 200mbps for $20 to qualifying households.
Please contact Christine Filippelli, State E-Rate Coordinator for Libraries (christine.filippelli@nysed.gov) with any questions.