Stating off 2012 at 17.9% we have watched the proposed contribution factor drop to 17.4% for the 2nd Quarter and now down to 15.7% for the 3rd Q.  Each quarter the FCC sets the USF (Universal Service Fund) which is charged by long distance carriers.  The percentage that is collect from long distance users is used to offer support to low-income consumers, schools, libraries, rural areas, and much more.