The total service long run incremental cost may be used as a floor under the discounted rate, if the carrier presents sufficient data. Providers of special services should be selected on the basis of competitive bids. Districts should also have the authority to aggregate demand by forming consortia with other eligible entities. The Commission should not take any action that would significantly restrict the sharing of facilities. Schools need dramatically improved transmission capacity.
Libraries also suffer from inadequate telecommunications capabilities.
Introducing advanced technology nation-wide will be a gradual process. Some would recommend free core services for schools and libraries and this recommendation deserves further study. Special services should include all telecommunications services up to and including those available today at the more advanced schools and libraries. These capabilities are all in line with the goals of both the Congress and the executive branch. The definition of special services should evolve over time and should be technologically neutral.