On October 20, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the suspension of Long Island-based consultant Richard Bernstein from participating in federal Universal Service Fund-supported programs, including E-rate. The FCC also initiated proceedings to debar him from future participation.
As we reported in January, Bernstein pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States in connection with a kickback scheme involving the E-rate and Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) programs.
In June 2026, Bernstein was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to forfeit $137,576.64.
The suspension prohibits Bernstein from participating in the programs while the FCC considers further action through the debarment process. If approved, the debarment would prohibit his participation for three years.
For additional details, read the FCC’s Notice of Suspension and Initiation of Debarment Proceeding.