Bipartisan Effort Emerges to Salvage Affordable Connectivity Program

In a joint effort, bipartisan legislation is set to be introduced in the House and Senate, allocating $7 billion for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a lifeline for low-income households facing potential internet service cost hikes. The ACP, currently serving nearly 23 million households, provides monthly discounts of $30 for internet service to low-income families and up to $75 for eligible households on tribal lands. With a looming budget shortfall, the Federal Communications Commission warns of possible disruptions to internet access for around 25 million homes by April if Congress does not extend the ACP. The Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, expected Wednesday, aims to secure the program's future, with FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasizing the urgency of additional funding to bridge the digital divide. The legislation has garnered support from over 450 organizations, including major telecom groups, AARP, AFL-CIO, ACLU, and the NAACP.