(AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Nearly 900,000 people in North Carolina benefit from the federal internet discount program, but they will no longer have access to it if lawmakers choose not to provide further funding. There is a possibility.
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a pandemic-era program that received funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act of 2021. We offer discounts to low-income households that have difficulty affording reliable high-speed internet.
The Biden administration claims that more than 22 million Americans nationwide have benefited from it since taking office.
This may cause problems with the program. The Federal Communications Commission expects existing funding to run out in April unless Congress provides additional funding. This means new and existing subscribers must pay the full service fee.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel supports the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, which could provide an additional $7 billion in funding to the ACP.
“The Affordable Connectivity Program connects millions of households across the country. The bipartisan Infrastructure Act created this program and created this program to make broadband affordable and available across the country. It was the largest effort to date, and we are now on the brink of missing out on its success,” Rosenworcel said. “Cutting millions of families off from jobs, schools, markets, and information is not the answer. We have gone too far with the ACP and there is no turning back.”
During a visit to North Carolina last month, President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of his plan.
“It’s really important. Electricity is as essential today as it was 100 years ago,” Biden said in a speech at Abbott Creek Community Center in Raleigh.
Deadline is approaching
Despite the possibility that funding may end, Wake County commissioners are encouraging residents to apply for the program by the application deadline.
“Reliable, affordable, and high-speed internet access is essential for our residents to work, attend classes, and pay their bills,” said Wake County Commission Chairwoman Sinica Thomas. “If you are interested in applying to ACP but have not yet done so, we encourage you to register now.”
Those interested in applying to the ACP must sign up by February 7th at 11:59 p.m. You must be approved and enrolled by that deadline to receive ACP benefits.
Program benefits:
- Up to $30 per month in service discounts
- Up to $75 per month in service discounts on eligible tribal lands.
- Up to $100 in device discounts on eligible devices
How to qualify:
- You, your child, or a dependent are enrolled in a government program such as Medicaid, SNAP, or WIC.
- If you or someone in your family is already receiving Lifeline benefits
- If your income is less than or equal to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Click here to learn how to qualify.
