Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF)

Ohio Department of Education & Workforce

Lorrie Germann
State E-Rate Coordinator
Email | lorrie.germann@education.ohio.gov
Phone | 740-223-2420   Cell | 740-253-1153

 

Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF)

 

What Is The Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF)

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package, was signed into law on March 11, 2021. Included in the legislation is the creation of the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) for broadband internet service and equipment to support remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, a new funding source consisting of $7.1 billion to be distributed through the federal E-rate program.

On May 10, 2021, the FCC unanimously adopted final rules in a Report and Order to implement the  Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (“ECF Program”). The ECF Program is a fund that enables “schools and libraries to purchase laptop and tablet computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, and broadband
connectivity for students, school staff, and library patrons in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.” The ECF provides significant, pandemic-related expenditures addressing the digital divide, funded outside of the existing federal Universal Service Fund programs. 

With these rules, the FCC sets in motion a process for schools and libraries to receive funding for 100% of purchases to provide remote learning and remote library services during the pandemic.


For more information, including the full Report and Order and Key Points, click on ECF Resources Library located at the top of the page.

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