The FCC has approved an Order which seeks comment on improving transparency and efficiency in the E-Rate program competitive bidding process. In the Order, the Commission proposes to require E-rate program bids to be uploaded into a centralized portal managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company. The current competitive bidding process involves service providers submitting bids directly to applicants for E-Rate-supported equipment and services. The FCC seeks comment on other ways it could improve the E-Rate competitive bidding process.
