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Assembly communications committee passes AB 2790 to clarify California Teleconnect Fund eligibility
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Summary
The California State Assembly Communications and Conveyance Committee voted to pass AB 2790, which updates eligibility and application procedures for the California Teleconnect Fund to align with the federal E‑Rate program and address CPUC rulemaking concerns; the bill was referred to the Appropriations Committee.
The Communications and Conveyance Committee of the California State Assembly on Wednesday passed AB 2790, a bill that would revise eligibility and administrative procedures for the California Teleconnect Fund (CTF), and referred the measure to the Appropriations Committee.
Chair Tasha Burner presented the bill on behalf of the committee, saying the measure "would implement changes to the eligibility and administrative procedures for the California Teleconnect Fund," including clarifications for non‑instructional facilities and guidance on applying CTF benefits in tandem with the federal E‑Rate program. Burner said the bill responds to feedback from the State Superintendent and other education stakeholders and aims to give clarity during ongoing rulemaking at the California Public Utilities Commission.
"As we continue to work with the CPUC, we aim to find agreement on how this bill can help the rulemaking process reach our common goal to keep schools and other eligible entities connected," Burner said during the presentation.
Kim Lewis, speaking for SCENIC (the Corporation for Education Network and Initiatives in California), told the committee that SCENIC operates the California Research and Education Network and represents schools, community colleges and libraries that rely on CTF support. "Codifying these existing practices will provide continuity, stability and fairness in the program administration, particularly during periods of regulatory or staffing changes," Lewis said, adding that "there is no new funding required by this program" because the bill clarifies current practice rather than expanding funding.
Representatives of the California Library Association and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction also voiced support. Christina DeCaro of the California Library Association said she was "in very strong support of the bill," and Kimberly Rosenberg spoke on behalf of State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, expressing appreciation for the committee's attention to the issue.
No witnesses approached in opposition when asked. After closing debate, the committee took a roll call vote. The secretary recorded yes/"aye" votes from multiple members and the chair announced the item had passed and would be referred to the Appropriations Committee; the roll was left open for additional votes to be added.
Next steps: AB 2790 moves to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, where it will be scheduled for further consideration. The Communications and Conveyance Committee adjourned after the vote.
