Affordable Internet Access for Low-Income Families in New York State

On August 15, New York Governor Kathy Hockle announced a settlement that will provide discounted broadband to low-income New York residents.

The New York State Public Utilities Commission has reached a settlement agreement with Charter Communications, the parent company of Spectrum, which provided cable television and interest-only services throughout the United States, including 58 of New York’s 62 counties.

According to the governor’s office, the settlement agreement will require Charter Communications to provide discounted broadband service to low-income customers of the National Free School Lunch Program or who receive Supplemental Social Security Income benefits.

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My Administration remains steadfast in our commitment to expanding internet service to all New Yorkers, and this settlement will directly benefit thousands of low-income New York families. Broadband is essential to driving economic growth and providing opportunity for all our citizens, and we will continue our efforts to provide broadband access across the state. – New York Governor Kathy Hawkle

Governor Hawkel’s office noted that the settlement requires Charter Communications to resume the program at $15 per month for four years, with 50 Mbps download speeds, for New Yorkers who participate in the National Free School Lunch Program or SSI recipients.

As part of the settlement agreement, during years two through four of the program, Charter Communications will not be permitted to increase prices above the rate of inflation as measured by the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index, beginning in the second year of the program.

For more information, please visit New York State Governor Kathy Hawkle’s website.