the move comes after the pandemic further exposed technological inequities.
The FCC voted unanimously Thursday to establish the $ 3.2 billion Broadband Emergency Benefits Program, which aims to provide eligible households with discounts on their online bills. It will also give households the opportunity to receive a discount computer or tablet.
Acting President Jessica Rosenworcel said the FCC had “made history” by creating rules “for the nation’s largest program to help nationwide afford broadband.”
“It will help those who park in cars in the parking lots just to catch a Wi-Fi signal to enter the service online. It will help those who stay out of the library with a laptop just to get a wireless signal for distance learning. who worry about choosing between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying food, “she added in a statement.” In short, this program can make a significant difference in the lives of people across the country. “
The program offers discounts of up to $ 50 per month for broadband service – and up to $ 75 per month if the household is on tribal land. In addition, it will set a one-time discount of up to $ 100 for computers or tablets for eligible households.
Eligible households include people with children who receive free and reduced-price school lunches or breakfasts, Pell Grant recipients, and those who have lost their jobs or had low incomes in the past year, according to the FCC. In addition, the program is open to households participating in an existing low-income or pandemic program offered by a broadband provider, as well as current subscribers to FCC Lifeline support for the affordable communications program.
The FCC said it intends to open the program to those who need it within 60 days. More information on how to apply should be available on the FCC website in the coming weeks.
“We trust our staff that we will do this carefully, quickly and in the right way,” Rosenworcel said.