Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC Celebrates Supreme Court Decision to Uphold the Universal Service Fund, Underscoring the Importance of Access to Essential Digital Services
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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Universal Service Fund (USF), a government program designed to promote equal access to telecommunications services for low-income communities. The Court's 6-3 decision marks a significant victory for digital equity, helping ensure that communities of color can continue to access essential digital services and fully engage in society.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC (Advancing Justice – AAJC) issues the following statement in response:
“Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC commends the Supreme Court’s decision to defend and uphold the USF. We are pleased that the nation’s highest court has acknowledged the essentiality of digital access in navigating daily life. At a time when 42 million Americans still lack access to high-speed internet, this decision marks a major moment of support in bridging the digital divide.
“For over 25 years, USF has played a critical role in ensuring that low-income communities are not left behind in an increasingly online world. As of March 2025, over 8.5 million households were subscribed to Lifeline and gained access to affordable high-speed broadband or telecommunications services. Between 2022-2024, E-Rate connected schools and libraries to essential internet services, benefiting over 54 million students. USF programs have connected vulnerable populations to job training programs and provided the elderly with more accessible healthcare.
“Broadband access is not just a convenience – it is a civil right that promotes socioeconomic mobility, access, and justice. Today’s digital disconnect is rooted in a history of segregation and perpetuates the digital redlining of communities of color, such as Black, Brown, Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations. With high-speed internet, families can access basic medical care, education, employment opportunities and reliable news – resources that should be available to everyone, not just a privileged few.
“Advancing Justice – AAJC stands firm in its commitment to advocate for universal broadband access. We will continue to offer resources for those who want to stay informed about telecommunications and technology issues and opportunities to support digital equity.”
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