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The Telecommunications Act of 1996 expanded the traditional goal of universal service to include increased access to both telecommunications and advanced services such as high-speed internet for all consumers at just, reasonable, and affordable rates. The Act established principles for universal service that specifically focused on increasing access to evolving services for consumers living in rural and insular areas, and for consumers with low-incomes. Additional principles called for increased access to high-speed internet in the nation’s schools, libraries, and rural healthcare facilities. The FCC established four programs within the Universal Service Fund to implement the statute: Connect America Fund (formally known as High-Cost Support) for rural areas; Lifeline (for low-income consumers), including initiatives to expand phone service for Native Americans; Schools and Libraries (E-rate); and Rural Healthcare.

On November 14, 2024, the Commission adopted the Alaska Connect Fund to further address broadband needs in Alaska.