Phyllis Jackson, a retired administrative assistant in Monroeville, Pa., recently started using home internet service for the first time in about two decades. She now uses the internet to pay bills, shop for clothes, discover new recipes, and research her medication.
Ms. Jackson signed up for internet service after enrolling in a federal program that offered a monthly discount for low-income households. Unfortunately, the program is running out of funding this spring, which will make it challenging for Ms. Jackson and millions of others to afford internet access.
The Affordable Connectivity Program provides low-income households up to $30 off their monthly internet bill, with eligible tribal land households receiving up to $75 off. More than 23 million households benefit from reduced or free internet service through this program.
While participants will continue to receive full benefits through April, the program is winding down, with no new applications being accepted. The program was included in the 2021 infrastructure law as a replacement for a pandemic-era program that offered discounts on internet bills.
The Biden administration is investing billions to expand access to high-speed internet across the country, viewing it as a crucial way to boost the economy. Connected workers participate in the job market more actively, and rural areas with internet connectivity experience economic growth.
Lawmakers are considering a bill to provide $7 billion to fund the program for another year. However, there are concerns about the program being wasteful, with Republicans questioning whether funds are reaching those who truly need the assistance.
As the program discontinues, millions of Americans face the risk of losing internet access, impacting their ability to work, study, and communicate. The end of the program may also complicate the administration’s broader effort to provide broadband access to every American.
Overall, the subsidy program has helped stabilize internet access for many households, ensuring they have consistent connectivity for various online activities. However, without continued support, low-income households may struggle to afford internet service, hindering efforts to expand broadband access across the country.
