Affordable Connectivity Program Funding Depleted, Threatening Internet Access for American Families
Calls for Congressional Action Grow as Essential Internet Subsidy Faces Uncertain Future
According to AP News, in May, many American families might have to pay more for the internet because of Affordable Connectivity Program that helps them with their bills is almost out of money. Affordable Connectivity Program was made by Congress and supported by President Joe Biden to help families who can’t afford internet access. To try to keep the Affordable Connectivity Program going, people gathered at a library in Washington including Senator Peter Welch to ask Congress to give it more money before it’s too late.
The Affordable Connectivity Program used to give families $30 each month to help pay for the internet. For families living on tribal land it was even more up to $75. But now, because the Affordable Connectivity Program is running out of money families will only get some of that help and soon they might not get any at all. This is worrying because many families need the internet for things like work and school. Without help, some might have to cancel their internet service altogether.
READ ALSO: $525,000 In Grants And Tech Support From EBay And Hello Alice For 50 Small Business Owners Including Black Entrepreneurs – Apply Before June 7!
Millions of American Families Face Larger Internet Bills Amid Affordable Connectivity Program Fund Depletion (PHOTO: CNBC)
Bipartisan Efforts Fall Short as Families Face Uncertainty Over Internet Access
Furthermore, even though lawmakers from different political parties have tried to make the Affordable Connectivity Program last longer by asking for more money, nothing has been decided yet. This means that families are left unsure about what will happen to their internet access. This situation shows how important it is for everyone to have affordable internet, especially for things like work and education.
READ ALSO: $30M Financial Shortfall Faces Of Austin School District: Tax Hike Proposal Aims To Bolster Finances And Boost Employee Pay-Are You In Favor?
