A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act.

This bill, introduced as S. 241, seeks to exempt the Federal Universal Service Fund (USF) from certain requirements of the Antideficiency Act. Under current law, the Antideficiency Act generally prevents federal agencies from spending or committing funds that have not yet been formally appropriated by Congress. By creating this exemption, the bill would allow the programs supported by the USF—such as those providing discounted internet and phone services to schools, libraries, rural health care providers, and low-income households—to continue operating without the risk of sudden administrative shutdowns or funding delays caused by federal accounting rules. The practical impact for citizens would be more consistent and predictable support for telecommunications access in underserved communities.