On February 7, 2024, the FCC stopped accepting new signups for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program offers discounts on Internet service to low-income Americans. The program is running out of money as it waits for Congress to provide new funding. Now in May 2024, ACP has run out of money but the FCC has reached a deal with Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, Verizon, and other providers to continue to offer $30 a month or cheaper home internet.
For some customers though they will need to switch internet plans. For example Comcast customers can switch to the new Comcast Now Internet and keep their plans at $30 a month.
“Many of these households have contacted the Commission to express their disappointment and frustration that they can no longer sign up for the program. Others have contacted the agency to express concern about the impending end of the program, noting its impact on older adults, families with school children, and military families at risk of losing their internet service without the ACP benefit,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel in her letter to Congress. “They worry that without ACP support they will lose access to employment, education, health care, and more.”
Recently the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act was introduced in Congress. This bill would provide an extra $7 billion for the ACP to keep it running. “I’m grateful to Sens. Welch, Vance, Rosen, and Cramer and Reps. Clarke and Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan leadership as we seek to maintain the historic progress we’ve made through this program,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel welcoming the legislation.
Roughly 23 million Americans use the program, and if it runs out of money, they will see their bills go up. It is hoped that Congress will find a short-term or long-term solution, such as a funding bill before that happens. For now, there is no timeline for when that will happen leaving millions to face increased costs for Internet when the program ends.
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Update: We updated the story to clarify that some customers will need to switch plans to keep $30 or cheaper internet.