FCC starts shutting down affordable internet program as GOP refuses to fund it
The two-year-old Affordable Connectivity Program, created as a part of the Democratic Party-led Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, looks like it will be coming to an end because of lack of funds. The program, which offers eligible households $30 per month toward their internet bills as well as small subsidies for laptops or tablets, has been in jeopardy since Republicans gained control in the House.
The Federal Communications Commission made the announcement on Monday, saying that it was starting to wind down the program earlier than previously expected because Congress is not providing necessary funds. This follows FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel’s repeated appeals and an additional request for $6 billion to keep the program running. According to the FCC, the program will run out of money by May.