FCC approves $ 50 monthly subsidies for low-income households during pandemic

FCC approves $ 50 monthly subsidies for low-income households during pandemic

by

The agency’s $ 3.2 billion emergency broadband benefit program offers low-income households up to $ 50 a month credit on their Internet accounts through their provider until the end of the pandemic. In tribal areas, eligible households can receive up to $ 75 per month. The program also offers eligible households up to $ 100 off one computer or tablet.

Implementation of Covid-19 vaccine puts the spotlight on unequal internet access
The program created by Congress is aimed at closing the digital divide, which has become painfully clear in recent years as millions of Americans have been forced to work remotely and learn. Some have also expressed concern that the digital divide could affect access to the vaccine, as registrations usually take place online.
Industry critics have for years pointed to inaccurate broadband maps, a lack of corporate investment and an inadequate focus on rural areas as the main barriers preventing millions of Americans from connecting online. The FCC officially believes that as many as 21 million Americans do not have high-speed Internet, but skeptics, including some within the FCC, have said that the actual number is likely to be much higher.

Last year, Congress adopted a coronavirus relief package that includes provisions for the new FCC program. And the FCC has launched a new task force this year to improve the data it collects on broadband availability, which could ultimately help the agency better target its efforts to close the gap.

Applications for the pandemic Internet benefits can begin within the next 60 days, said Jessica Rosenworcel, acting chair of the FCC, after the agency put in place the systems needed to work with ISPs.

“This is a program that will help those at risk of digital disconnection,” Rosenworcel said in a statement. “It will help those sitting in cars in parking lots to just get a Wi-Fi signal to go online. It will help those who linger outside the library with a laptop, just to get a wireless signal for This will help those who are concerned about choosing between paying for a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries. ‘

Households eligible for the program include those who use food stamps, are on Medicaid or have received a Pell award. Those who lost their jobs during the pandemic are also eligible.

.Source