FCC to provide $ 50 broadband internet grants for low-income households

The Federal Communications Commission has given the green light to a program to provide low-income households with monthly subsidies of $ 50 for high-speed internet in a bid to help bridge the digital divide almost a year later that the coronavirus pandemic has forced many schools, businesses and more to go virtual.

On Thursday, the FCC unanimously voted to implement the $ 3.2 billion broadband emergency benefit program, which aims to provide eligible households with discounts on their internet bills. It will also allow some households to receive a computer or tablet at a reduced price.

Acting President Jessica Rosenworcel said the FCC had “made history” by creating the rules “for the largest program ever in the country to help households across the country afford broadband service.”

“It will help those who sit in cars in parking lots just to pick up a Wi-Fi signal to go to work online. This will help those who stay outside 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 groceries, ”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 establish a one-time rebate of up to $ 100 on computers or tablets for eligible households.

Eligible households include those with children who receive free and discounted school lunches or breakfasts, recipients of the Pell grant, and those who have lost their jobs or had their income reduced in the past year, according to the FCC. In addition, the program is open to households participating in a low-income or pandemic relief program offered by a broadband service provider as well as current subscribers of the FCC’s Lifeline Support Program for a 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.

“I have confidence in our staff that we will do it carefully, quickly and in the right way,” said Rosenworcel.