Arlington, Va. , August 30, 2007 - Arlington, Va. - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced late yesterday the adoption of "measures to safeguard the Universal Service Fund ("USF") from waste, fraud, and abuse as well as measures to improve the management, administration, and oversight of the USF."

The following statement of support was released by the Coalition to Keep America Connected.

"The reforms announced yesterday are part of the effort to bring more accountability and oversight to the high-cost, low-income, schools and libraries, and rural health care universal service programs.

"FCC leadership is critical to ensuring the USF system functions efficiently so it can continue to ensure all Americans are connected to the robust nationwide telecommunications system. The FCC's actions maintain the integrity of the USF by addressing both contributors and recipients.

"Although the USF system currently has little tolerance for waste and abuse, and requires fund recipients to provide thorough accounting of their work, the new requirements should ensure greater accountability and compliance with applicable regulations."

The Coalition to Keep America Connected is dedicated to ensuring that all consumers have access to affordable telecommunications services and the latest technologies-no matter where they live. The effort is organized by four rural telecom associations, whose memberships include 700 small and midsize communications companies. Together these companies serve millions of consumers and 40% of the landmass across America. Visit us at www.keepamericaconnected.org.