You can find a PDF of this press release here.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brittany-Rae Gregory
brittany-rae@nextcenturycities.org
May 9, 2022

Washington, D.C. (May 9, 2022) – Today, President Biden and Vice President Harris announced that its administration is accepting voluntary commitments from broadband providers to offer $30 a month Internet service plans to qualifying low-income consumers. 

The commitments from 20 Internet service providers, thus far, marks a significant milestone for households that may not have access to low-cost plans. Service options that are tailored for low-income consumers helps to ensure that Americans on the wrong side of the digital divide have reliable Internet access with minimal out-of-pocket costs. 

The following can be attributed to Ryan Johnston, Policy Counsel, Federal Programs, at Next Century Cities: 

“The collaboration between the Biden Administration and the Federal Communications Commission shows an unprecedented effort to connect low-income Americans with affordable broadband connections at home. Reliable high-speed Internet access continues to be a pillar for full participation in digital society. Building on the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, new problem solving techniques from interagency collaboration, and strategic outreach to impacted communities are essential for reaching every household.

“It will be exciting to see how the White House, FCC, and other federal agencies continue to engage with local officials and community leaders who ensure that eligible households actually learn about their ACP eligibility.”   

For more information about the ACP program see our ACP page. The full remarks from today’s announcement can be viewed here.

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