The unanimous vote allows the agency to devote up to $200 million from its Universal Service Fund toward school and library applicants that request better equipment and services to help stop cyberattacks against such institutions.
The commission has mainly relied on a longstanding E-Rate program to provide funding for schools and libraries, though the funds for the new pilot program are separate 'to ensure gains in enhanced cybersecurity do not undermine E-Rate's success in connecting schools and libraries and promoting digital equity,' an agency statement said.
The private sector at the time announced several voluntary commitments, including grant programs and free or subsidized cybersecurity offerings for schools.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement: 'We also know this is a multifaceted problem and there are many others at the local, state, and federal level... We do not have all the answers. But we can use our authority at the Commission to start asking the right questions.'
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