FCC to establish $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
The program will provide low-income households $50/month as a subsidy for broadband internet
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN)- The Federal Communications Commission has approved a new program that will give low-income households $50/month as a subsidy for broadband internet as a way to rid many families of the digital differences that have separated many during a year marked by the coronavirus pandemic, which forces most schools and businesses to rely on virtual communication.
The FCC voted unanimously to establish the $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, their goal is to provide American households that qualify with less hefty internet bills and chances to receive a computer or tablet at a discounted price.
Jessica Rosenworcel, the acting chairman of the FCC, calls it “the nation’s largest-ever program to help households nationwide afford broadband service.”
“It will help those sitting in cars in parking lots just to catch a Wi-Fi signal to go online for work. It will help those lingering outside the library with a laptop just to get a wireless signal for remote learning. It will help those who worry about choosing between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries,” she added in a statement. “In short, this program can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people across the country.”
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This program will provide $50/month for broadband service and $75/month if the household is on tribal land. There will also be a one-time discount of up to $100 for eligible households in need of a computer or tablet.
Who qualifies as an eligible household though? The FCC says those with children who get free and reduced-price school meals, Pell Grant recipients, and those who have had their income reduced in the past year or have lost their jobs are eligible for the program.
The program is also welcoming those who have participated in an existing low-income or pandemic relief program offered by a broadband provider and those currently subscribed to the FCC’s Lifeline support for affordable communications program.
For those interested in the program or more information on it, the FCC plans on opening the program up within 60 days. More information can be found on the FCC website in the next few weeks.
