Discounts on any available telecommunications service to meet the varied needs of schools and libraries. A universal service fund whose unexpended resources can be carried over from year to year. Discounts on monthly rates for telecommunications and Internet services. Deep discounts for all telecommunications services is the first important step to providing that fair and equitable access. Two of every three Americans voiced their support for this discounted rate, according to a poll NSBA commissioned last month.
Libraries are a critical link for children and adults with no computer at home.
These provisions will help level the playing field in the information age. The Joint Board's plan will allow schools and libraries to choose the services most appropriate to their individual needs and goals, from the most basic to the most advanced technology services commercially available. EdLiNC also praises President Clinton, Vice President Gore, and Department of Education Secretary Riley for the crucial roles they played in spotlighting the vital need for this access. The Telecommunications Act of 1996, the first major rewrite of communications legislation in six decades, includes a provision requiring universal service. The new statute expands universal service to include access to advanced telecommunications services for schools and libraries.