In today’s rapidly advancing digital landscape, access to the internet has become synonymous with access to education, job opportunities, healthcare services, and so much more. However, despite the benefits of a connected world, a significant portion of Americans are still left on the wrong side of the digital divide, making it more important than ever to advance digital equity – ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographical location, or background, have access to the digital resources necessary to participate in modern society.
The implementation of comprehensive programs that both subsidize and promote needed broadband access for unserved and underserved communities is crucial to achieving this. Since 2021, the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has helped connect more than 20 million households with affordable and reliable broadband services for those who need it the most. By subsidizing internet costs for low-income households through their internet service providers, ACP enables communities across the country to afford access to engage in today’s interconnected world and join the digital economy.
However, the success of the ACP depends heavily on consistent funding, as well as raising awareness among people who qualify for the program. In August 2023, the FCC adopted new rules to provide a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying tribal lands. ACP also offers a one-time discount of up to $100 toward a device, such as a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet after a family pays between $10 and $50 for that purchase. For those in need, ACP support is the difference between participating in the digital economy and being further left behind.
Congress created the ACP to be a permanent program but did not receive sustained funding from Congress past the $14 billion it originally committed to the program. Despite the success of the ACP, the ACP’s sustainability is in jeopardy unless Congress acts to provide the funds it needs to keep going. And without continued support for the ACP, the success of other federal broadband access initiatives are at risk too, such as the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment program, which is providing $42 billion to states in support of infrastructure deployment and adoption programs in all states and territories.
Congress must act to sustain the ACP and provide the support America’s unserved and underserved communities need to fully participate in the digital age by re-funding the ACP. The time to act is now, as we collectively work towards a more connected, informed, and empowered future for all.