You can find a pdf of the press release here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Brittany-Rae Gregory
brittany-rae@nextcenturycities.org

Washington, D.C. (May 12, 2021) – Today marks the first day of enrollment in the Federal Communications Commission’s Emergency Broadband Benefit (“EBB”) program. In collaboration with providers nationwide, the EBB will make broadband service and devices more affordable for low-income residents. 

Eligible households will receive a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service, and up to $75 per month for households living on Tribal lands. Participants can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 towards a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from EBB providers if they contribute at least $10 to the purchase price.

We urge local leaders to take action on Friday, May 14th, to ensure that every low-income household in their communities finds out about the Emergency Broadband Benefit program and how to enroll. 

The FCC Outreach Toolkit and USAC Outreach Toolkit include resources for local and state governments to promote the EBB. Local and state leadership should consider doing one of the following this week: 

• Build awareness on social media using #EBBDayofAction.
• Include a post in your city council newsletter or town hall meeting agenda. 
• Circulate a fact sheet on how the EBB could positively impact your community. 
• Post flyers in community centers, libraries, gas stations, and grocery stores. 
• Collaborate with government agencies that provide services for low-income populations.
• Partner with community organizers or faith groups to spread the word. 

Next Century Cities, New York State Library, and the New York State Broadband Office will co-host a webinar for local and state officials to share effective outreach and enrollment strategies. The May 14th webinar will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. EST. Register here.

Eligible households can enroll in the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program directly through a local provider, online with the Universal Service Administrative Company, or by downloading and mailing in a paper application via the Universal Service Administrative Company. Resources from local and state officials, nonprofits, and anchor institutions can be found on the Next Century Cities Emergency Broadband Benefit Resource Page. 

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Next Century Cities is a non-profit organization of over 200 communities, founded to support communities and their elected leaders. Our membership includes mayors and other officials who are working to ensure that all have access to fast, affordable, and reliable internet access. For more information, visit www.nextcenturycities.org .