'E-Rate' Discounts Attract Scrutiny on Hill

By Andrew Trotter

The federal "E-rate" program of telecommunications discounts for schools and libraries is off to a fast start across the country but has run into a new round of flak on Capitol Hill.

Several influential senators, including John McCain, R-Ariz., Ernest F. Hollings, D-S.C., and Ted Stevens, R-Alaska, have raised questions about the Federal Communications Commission's handling of the program.

Some political observers say the senators could be seeking more control over the program, which touches directly on the high-profile issues of...