On Friday, NASCIO submitted comments in response to the Federal Communications Commission’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) regarding the E-rate program. The FCC is proposing a modernization of the E-rate program that provides broadband for schools and libraries. The goal is to improve the program effectiveness and administration of the program. NASCIO focused its comments on such issues as data standardization, regional and state-wide planning and applications, bulk purchasing, and reducing administrative and redundant public sector costs by considering partnerships that bring in intergovernmental and private sector partners.