USAC had improperly denied E-rate applicants funds on the grounds they violated certain competitive bidding regulations. Specifically, USAC used a "pattern analysis" to deny schools based on "similarities in Forms 470 among applicants associated with this vendor indicate that the vendor was improperly involved in the competitive bidding and vendor selection process." The FCC is now directing USAC to conduct further investigation before denying an applicant based on "similarities in Form 470's."
The FCC argues that there are many legitimate reasons why applicants could have used similar language in their applications. For example:
- They may have used the same consultant.
- Attended the same seminar or training program.
- Modeled their responses from the same website.
Further information can be viewed at Academy of Careers and Technologies FCC Appeal.doc
