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

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

by

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

The launch of the Covid-19 vaccine highlights unequal access to the Internet
The program created by Congress aims to eliminate the digital divide, which became painfully apparent last year, when millions of Americans were forced to work and learn remotely. Some have also raised concerns that the digital divide could affect access to the vaccine, as applications generally take place online.
For years, industry critics have pointed to inaccurate broadband maps, a lack of corporate investment and an insufficient focus on rural areas as the main obstacles that prevent millions of Americans from connecting. The FCC officially believes that up to 21 million Americans do not have high-speed internet, but skeptics, including some within the FCC, said the actual number is probably much higher.

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

Enrollments for the benefits of the internet pandemic could begin in the next 60 days, said Jessica Rosenworcel, acting president of the FCC, after the agency established the systems necessary to work with internet providers.

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

The households eligible for the program include those who use food stamps, are on Medicaid or have received a Pell grant. Also eligible are those who lost their jobs during the pandemic.

.Source