US Senate report says spending on consultants for internet subsidy program tops $200 million annually

What happened: A US Senate committee report said consultants helping schools and libraries win funding from the $3 billion annual E-Rate internet subsidy program receive $200 million to $400 million annually. Key numbers: $3 billion annual program; $200 million to $400 million in annual consultant fees. Why it matters: Senate Commerce Committee chair Ted Cruz said the fees should prompt greater scrutiny of how E-Rate funds move, who benefits, and whether the program delivers value to schools, libraries and taxpayers.

A US Senate committee report said consultants helping schools and libraries win funding from the $3 billion annual E-Rate internet subsidy program receive $200 million to $400 million annually.

Senate Commerce Committee chair Ted Cruz said the fees should prompt greater scrutiny of how E-Rate funds move, who benefits, and whether the program delivers value to schools, libraries and taxpayers.