Today marks the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a key component of the US government’s effort to make internet access more affordable. The program, born out of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, has been providing low-income Americans with a $30 monthly discount on broadband bills. Those living on Tribal lands could receive up to $75. As of now, over 23 million households have benefited from the ACP. However, without renewed funding from Congress, these discounts are disappearing, which could force many to choose between internet access and other essentials like food and rent.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?
Launched in 2021 as part of a broader initiative to support various floundering sectors, including transportation and public utilities, the ACP allocated $14.2 billion to help families afford high-speed internet. Eligibility was determined by household income—those earning less than 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline qualified for the benefit.
Why is the ACP expiring?
The program’s end is due to a lack of funding. Despite repeated calls from the Biden administration for Congress to invest an additional $6 billion to continue the ACP, these efforts have not been successful. Advocacy groups and organizations like the Federal Communications Commission have also pushed for the program’s extension, to no avail.
Who’s affected?
The ACP’s termination impacts about one in six American households that have been depending on these internet subsidies. The Federal Communications Commission has mandated that networks notify users about the program’s conclusion. Families benefiting from the ACP will now face full internet service costs unless they qualify for other subsidies.
What happens next?
Affected families might turn to the Lifeline service by the Universal Service Administrative Company, which offers a smaller subsidy of up to $9.25 per month, or $34.25 for those on qualifying Tribal lands. In a recent statement, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre urged telecommunications companies to continue offering affordable plans despite the funding shortfall. The administration hopes these providers will offer low-cost or no-cost plans to keep consumers connected.
If you haven’t received notification about the change from your internet provider, reaching out to them directly is advisable. The FCC also hosts an information page on the ACP wind-down and encourages the filing of complaints if necessary.
