The Biden administration has warned that millions of Americans could face higher internet bills or lose access to their plans because of the impending expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This federal program has connected over 23 million households to the internet, providing crucial discounts to an estimated 59 million low-income individuals. Without funding, these households will face financial strain and potentially have to choose between paying for necessities like groceries or internet service.
Efforts to extend the ACP program have stalled in Congress, with the Biden administration urging Republicans to take action to secure its future. President Biden has called for $6 billion to continue the program, while a bipartisan bill introduced in January proposes $7 billion in funding and has garnered support from both Republicans and Democrats. However, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson’s reluctance to allow the bill to come to a vote is a significant obstacle to the program’s extension.
The ACP program faces a critical juncture as its funding is set to run out by the end of the month, leading to potentially dire consequences for millions of households across the country. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has pledged to continue working to secure the necessary Republican support to fully fund and sustain the program. Without congressional action, the ACP could collapse by early May, leaving many vulnerable populations, including seniors and military families, without access to affordable internet service.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has highlighted the impact that the ACP’s disruption would have on vulnerable populations and stressed the need for swift legislative action to extend the program. The program, which serves millions of households participating in federal aid programs like the National School Lunch Program, plays a critical role in ensuring access to education, work, and healthcare for low-income individuals. Despite bipartisan support for extending the ACP program, uncertainty remains as to whether Congress will act in time to prevent its collapse.
The Biden administration has emphasized the urgency of extending the ACP program to avoid the financial burden it would place on millions of Americans, especially during a time of economic hardship. While Democrats and some Republicans have shown support for funding the program, the lack of action from congressional leaders like Speaker Johnson poses a significant challenge. As the deadline for the program’s expiration approaches, lawmakers face mounting pressure to reach a bipartisan agreement to secure funding for the ACP and prevent millions of households from losing access to essential internet services.
