Janice R. Andrews
Millions of Americans are on the verge of losing internet access today, as the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) formally ends. The ACP, which was created as part of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021, offers critical financial help to low-income households seeking high-speed internet connection.
The program, which provides monthly credits of up to $30 for qualifying households and up to $75 for those living on tribal territories, has been a lifeline for many families trying to afford internet connection. However, with its expiration, homeowners across the country face drastically higher internet prices.
The ACP’s failure highlights the critical issue of the digital divide in the United States, where internet access has become increasingly important, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 outbreak. Lack of internet connectivity not only limits educational and professional options, but it also worsens social and economic inequality.
The Biden administration’s efforts to get more money for the program have so far been fruitless, putting over 23 million people in limbo. Despite cautions and notices issued earlier this year, many impacted persons may become disconnected unless alternative measures are implemented.
In response to the approaching crisis, the White House has pushed telecom firms to consider adopting low- or no-cost options to assist minimize the effects of the ACP’s expiration. However, whether providers will heed this plea is unknown.
If affected individuals have not received notification of service changes, they should contact their internet providers immediately. Furthermore, households experiencing financial difficulties may consider options such as the Lifeline program, which provides discounted internet costs to qualifying persons.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established services to help impacted users and urges them to register complaints if necessary, as the country struggles with the fallout from the ACP’s expiration. Millions of Americans are at a crossroads in their connected journey, with their future internet access potentially at risk.
