The Federal Communications Commission announced Friday that it had approved funds to provide Internet subsidies to low-income families through the establishment of the Emergency Broadband Benefits Program.
The FCC says the program will provide eligible families with discounts of up to $ 50 a month for broadband service and up to $ 75 a month if the family is on tribal land. It will also offer a one-time discount of up to $ 100 on a computer or tablet for eligible homes, the FCC added.
The FCC says the program is open to Lifeline subscribers, including those who are on Medicaid or accept SNAP benefits; families with children receiving free or reduced school lunch or breakfast; Pell scholarship recipients; and those who lost jobs and saw their income reduced in the last year.
The program is expected to cost $ 3.2 billion.
“This is a program that will help those at risk of digital disconnection. This will help those sitting in cars in parking lots just to get a Wi-Fi signal to go online to work, ”said FCC acting president Jessica Rosenworcel. “This will help those who are outside the library with a laptop just to get a wireless signal for remote learning. It will help those who are concerned with choosing between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries. In short, this program can make a significant difference in the lives of people across the country. “
The program is scheduled to start in 60 days. The FCC has not yet launched an application program, but when updated information will be available by clicking on here.
Justin Boggs is a writer for the EW Scripps National Desk. Follow him on Twitter @jjboggs or in the Facebook.