FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Jan. 16, 2026
SCHRAM APPOINTED TO USAC BOARD
Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) Chair Tim Schram
of Gretna has been appointed to the Universal Service
Administrative Company (USAC) board of directors.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman
Brendan Carr appointed him to the three-year term, which
began Jan. 1 and runs through 2028.
USAC is the independent nonprofit organization that
administers the multi-billion-dollar federal Universal Service
Fund (USF). The fund ensures affordable access to phone and
broadband service through programs such as:
- High Cost, which supports broadband and voice service in
rural and high-cost areas; - E-Rate, which helps schools and libraries obtain affordable
internet access; - Rural Health Care, which supports connectivity for health
care providers in rural areas; and - Lifeline, which assists low-income consumers with the cost
of communications services.
“I’m honored by Chairman Carr’s appointment and the
opportunity to serve on the USAC Board,” Commissioner
Schram said. “USAC plays a critical role in connecting
communities across the country, particularly in rural areas. I
look forward to contributing my regulatory experience and
working with fellow board members to ensure these programs
are administered efficiently, transparently and in the best
interest of consumers.”
In addition to program administration, USAC is responsible for
collecting and disbursing USF monies, conducting outreach and
education, and ensuring program integrity through audits and
oversight activities. The board’s next quarterly meeting is
scheduled for Jan.26-27 in Washington, D.C.
Now in his fourth term on the PSC, Commissioner Schram has
been closely involved in telecommunications regulation and
broadband expansion initiatives, with an emphasis on improving
connectivity in unserved and underserved areas of Nebraska.
He was first elected in 2006 to represent District 3, which
includes Sarpy, Saunders and western Douglas counties in
eastern Nebraska.
During his time in office, Commissioner Schram has regularly
contributed his state regulatory perspective to federal boards
and national industry groups. Among other FCC-related
appointments, he serves on the Interstate Telecommunications
Relay System (TRS) Fund Advisory Council and the
Communications Security, Reliability and Interoperability
Council (CSRIC).
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Media Contact:
Jason McFarley – Public Information & Education Officer
(402) 471-0226
jason.mcfarley@nebraska.gov
