Rural broadband subsidies on the chopping block at Fifth Circuit

A Fifth Circuit panel is reviewing a challenge to the FCC's rural broadband subsidies, which could lead to billions in cuts to programs for schools, libraries, and health clinics. Petitioners argue the FCC violated the Supreme Court's recent interpretation of Section 254 of the Communications Act by continuing to fund programs that do not meet its criteria, specifically targeting the Connect America Fund Phase II and Rural Digital Opportunity Fund.