Spectrum Cable has quietly introduced a $15 monthly internet service plan in New York State to meet the requirements of a new law aimed at providing lower-income residents with affordable broadband access. This move comes as AT&T has decided to withdraw its 5G home internet service from the state entirely rather than comply with the same mandate.
Spectrum’s new program, called Spectrum Internet Assist, is available to customers who qualify for one of three low-income programs:
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the NSLP
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI all types)
The program offers download speeds of up to 50 Mbps for $15 per month, with the option to upgrade to 100 Mbps for an additional $5 per month. There are no data caps associated with the service according to a report from The Daily Catch.
Other internet service providers (ISPs) are also expected to offer similar plans to comply with the state law. However, details of their plans were not immediately available at the time of this report.
The state’s Department of Public Service is responsible for monitoring compliance with the new law.
AT&T’s decision to withdraw its 5G home internet service from New York is attributed to the law’s rate regulations, which the company considers to be “harmful” and uneconomical for further investment in the state’s broadband infrastructure.
The new law, known as the Affordable Broadband Act, was enacted in April 2021. It requires ISPs serving more than 20,000 households in New York to offer discounted broadband plans to low-income residents.
While AT&T will no longer offer its 5G home internet service in New York, it will continue to provide 4G and 5G mobile service in the state.
Spectrum’s move to offer a low-cost internet plan is a positive development for low-income residents in New York, providing them with greater access to the internet and the opportunities it presents. However, AT&T’s withdrawal highlights the challenges faced by ISPs in complying with regulations that aim to increase affordability and access to broadband services.
The ongoing debate over broadband affordability and access is likely to continue as policymakers and industry stakeholders seek to find solutions that balance the needs of consumers, businesses, and service providers.