Liberal and conservative justices voiced concern about potentially devastating consequences of eliminating the fund that has benefited millions of Americans.

The Supreme Court appeared sympathetic Wednesday to a series of programs geared toward expanding high-speed internet in rural and poor communities, despite a challenge from a conservative group claiming funding for that effort violates separation of powers principles.

Digital divide advocates can breathe a tentative sigh of relief as the Supreme Court appeared reluctant to dismantle the Universal Service Fund, a program that spends nearly $9 billion each year to help low-income and rural Americans access phone and internet service, as well as schools, libraries and hospitals.