Biden administration asks Republicans to extend popular broadband discount program

President Joe Biden’s administration on Tuesday called on Republicans in Congress to extend funding for the Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program, a consumer broadband rebate program used by more than 23 million households.

Members of Congress in January introduced bipartisan legislation that would add a $7 billion extension to the Affordable Connectivity Program. Without an extension, it’s expected to run out of funding this month.

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Your internet bill may be going up soon: Here’s why

Millions of U.S. households have been receiving warnings for weeks that the discounted internet or telephone service they’ve had since the COVID-19 pandemic will soon come to an end. That end date is fast approaching, meaning those households will soon have to pay full price again for service.....Read More

Broadband subsidy program that millions use will expire next year if Congress doesn’t act

The Affordable Connectivity Program has not reached everyone who is eligible. According to an Associated Press analysis of enrollment and census data, less than than 40% of eligible households have utilized the program, which provides monthly subsidies of $30, and in some cases, up to $75, to help pay for internet connections.

But the program's future is uncertain. Its primary source of funding, a $14.2 billion allocation, is projected to run out by the middle of 2024. That could end access to affordable broadband for millions of people and hinder the Biden administration’s push to bring connectivity to the people who need it most.

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