The FCC approves $ 50 monthly Internet grants for low-income households during a pandemic

by

The $ 3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program offers eligible low-income households up to $ 50 per month of credit to their Internet accounts through their provider until the end of the pandemic. In tribal areas, eligible households can receive up to $ 75 per month. The program also offers eligible households up to $ 100 off a single computer or tablet.

Rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine highlights unequal internet access
The congressional-established program aims to close the digital divide, which has become painfully evident over the past year as millions of Americans have been forced to work and learn remotely. Some have also expressed concern that the digital divide could affect access to the vaccine, as registrations usually take place online.
For years, industry critics have pointed to inaccurate broadband maps, lack of business investment, and insufficient focus on rural areas as major hurdles preventing millions of Americans from getting online. The FCC officially believes that as many as 21 million Americans do not have high-speed Internet, but skeptics, including some within the FCC, have said the actual number is likely much higher.

Last year, Congress approved a coronavirus relief package that included provisions for the FCC’s new program. And the FCC created a new task force this year to improve the data it collects on broadband availability, which could ultimately help the agency better focus its efforts to close the gap.

The filings for the pandemic Internet benefits can begin within 60 days, Jessica Rosenworcel, the FCC’s acting chairman, said after the agency establishes the systems needed to work with Internet service providers.

“This is a program that will help people at risk of digital disconnection,” Rosenworcel said in a statement. “It will help those in cars in parking lots pick up a Wi-Fi signal to get online for work. It will help those hanging out with a laptop outside the library to get a wireless signal for work. Distance learning. It will help those concerned with the choice between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries. “

Households eligible for the program include those who use food stamps, use Medicaid, or have received a Pell grant. Also eligible are those who lost their jobs during the pandemic.

Source