The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers eligible households a discount of up to $30 on their monthly internet bills, with tribal households receiving up to $75 off. However, as the program is running out of funds, subsidies will be reduced to $14 in May ($35 for tribal households) and completely phased out by June unless Congress approves additional funding.
This program, made possible by $14.2 billion from the bipartisan infrastructure act signed by President Biden in 2021, plays a crucial role in his agenda to ensure high-speed internet access for all Americans and bridge the digital divide. Biden has emphasized the importance of high-speed internet, considering it a necessity rather than a luxury, and has committed to connecting every American to high-speed internet by 2030.
According to Geoffrey Starks, a commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), over 23 million households, representing one in every six households in the U.S., rely on the ACP. Starks highlighted that nearly half of the enrolled households are military families, with almost a quarter being seniors, and close to 50% comprising Black and brown households.
Despite bipartisan efforts to extend the program, Congress has not yet approved additional funding. Senator Peter Welch introduced a bipartisan bill seeking $7 billion for the ACP, co-sponsored by both Democratic and Republican senators and representatives. Additionally, Democratic Senator John Fetterman introduced a bill to make the program permanent by funding it through broadband and edge service providers.
The White House has urged Congress to approve $6 billion for the program, emphasizing the urgency of funding to ensure that low-income and vulnerable households remain connected. If funding is not secured, Stark emphasized the need to work with internet service providers to ensure continued connectivity for these households.
Charter Communications, parent company of Spectrum News, has encouraged customers to advocate for the extension or replacement of the program by providing a pre-written email template for contacting elected representatives. Other broadband providers such as Verizon, Xfinity, and AT&T have also offered resources on their websites to assist customers in staying connected with affordable plans.
