The Affordable Connectivity Program, which provided low-income Americans with monthly credits to help them afford internet service, has officially ended as of June 1. The program, which was popular and served tens of millions of households, was not extended due to lack of funding from Congress. This decision has left nearly 60 million Americans at risk of financial distress as they may no longer be able to afford their internet bills.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel stated that the Affordable Connectivity Program filled an important gap that other low-income programs could not fully address. She expressed the FCC’s willingness to resume the program if additional funding is provided by Congress. Despite bipartisan legislation being proposed to extend the program, Republican leaders did not take action, leading to its eventual closure. President Joe Biden has called on Congress to pass legislation to extend the program and announced commitments from certain internet providers to continue offering low-income internet plans.
The closure of the Affordable Connectivity Program will result in immediate financial burdens for participants who relied on the program to offset their internet costs. Without intervention from Congress, many households may be forced to downgrade or cancel their internet plans due to affordability issues. The program was initially funded by Congress with $14 billion and Biden has requested $6 billion to continue it, with bipartisan support proposing an additional $7 billion in funding.
The ongoing lack of action from Congress to extend the Affordable Connectivity Program has been criticized by advocates and lawmakers alike. House Speaker Mike Johnson did not respond to requests for comment on the matter. President Biden has emphasized the importance of extending the program and has secured commitments from several internet providers to offer low-cost broadband plans to ACP households. These providers are expected to cover a significant portion of the households relying on the program.
The potential consequences of the Affordable Connectivity Program ending without a solution from Congress are significant, as millions of low-income households may struggle to afford internet access. The program was instrumental in bridging the digital divide and providing essential connectivity to underserved communities. Advocates and experts have expressed disappointment in the lack of action from Congress and the potential impact on those who relied on the program for affordable internet access.
