One of the key aspects of President Joe Biden’s plan to provide internet access to every home and business in the United States by 2030 is affordability. However, an important federal program that helps keep broadband costs down for low-income households is set to expire next year.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides monthly subsidies of $30, and in some cases up to $75, to eligible households to assist with internet connection costs. However, less than 40% of eligible households have utilized the program, according to an analysis of enrollment and census data.
Despite its limited reach, the ACP has been a lifeline for individuals like Kimberlyn Barton-Reyes, who is paraplegic and visually impaired. Barton-Reyes relies on the program to afford her internet connection, which is crucial for her daily needs.
The future of the program is uncertain, as its primary source of funding, a $14.2 billion allocation, is projected to run out by mid-2024. This could result in millions of people losing access to affordable broadband and hinder the Biden administration’s efforts to bridge the digital divide.
Advocacy groups are urging Congress to extend the program to ensure its continued success. States like Louisiana and Ohio have enrolled more than half of all eligible households, while enrollment in other states lags behind the national average.
If the program expires, it could damage the trust between consumers and internet service providers, making it harder to close the digital divide. This is particularly important as the nation embarks on a plan to expand broadband access to all.
Lawmakers from both parties, as well as the White House, support the program and recognize the need for affordable internet access. The Biden administration has already allocated billions of dollars to ensure broadband access for every home and business.
It is crucial for Congress to take action and extend the Affordable Connectivity Program to continue providing affordable internet access to those who need it most.
NOTE: This article has been paraphrased for clarity and ease of reading.
