New program will help some Americans pay for broadband internet

WASHINGTON, DC — The federal government just launched a new $3 billion program to help offset the cost of broadband internet access.

Those who qualify will receive a credit of $50 a month.

The program is offered by the Federal Communications Commission.

At a recent congressional hearing, lawmakers heard how widespread the need is not just for funds, but to internet access, especially in rural communities.

“For millions of Americans, there is no broadband network available capable of allowing them to participate fully in 21st-century life,” said Joy Cheney of the National Urban League.

To see if you qualify for the emergency broadband benefit, go to https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit

The site walks you through how to sign up, and it’s available to all families who lost some income in the last year and earn less than $198,000.

Economists, including Dr. George Floyd, have testified before Congress saying the FCC needs to support this program for the long-term.

“The FCC has billions to support broadband deployment in certain areas and reasonable mechanisms to support them,” said Floyd.

Democrats in Congress want to make the credit permanent.

Republicans worry about the costs and government reach to make that happen.

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