Many Americans to Get Free Internet from White House Initiative

US President 46, Mr. Joe Biden announced from the White House, actionable commitments from 20 leading internet service providers to cut prices, and have eligible consumers pay no more than $30 per month for internet service. In some cases, the services are free to consumers.

The Biden-Harris administration has provided means for companies to offset the cost of internet to consumers.Whitehouse.gov

On Friday November 12th, 2021, Congress passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law provides $1.2 trillion for infrastructure in the US.

According to WhiteHouse.gov, the legislation prepares for development in the following areas:

• Better Roads and Bridge - $110 million for new roads, bridges, and major projects.
• Investment in Public Transit - Replace yellow school busses with zero-emission busses.
• More Jobs - Introduce 700,000 new jobs per year.
• No More Lead Pipes - Eliminates dangerous lead pipes that hold drinking water.
• Address the Climate Crisis - Create a national network of electric vehicle chargers, modernize airports, ports, and waterways, and protect against droughts, floods, and wildfires.
• High Speed Internet for all - Ensures 100% of Americans have access to high-speed internet.

High Speed Internet for All Americans

The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) authorized a program called, Emergency Broadband Benefit. The program subsidized the internet service needs of qualifying households. However, the program ended on March 1, 2022, according to the FCC website.

The current and active program for the affordable internet subsidy for eligible consumers, is now called the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is also a FCC program. It provides:

• $30 a month for internet service
• $100 discount on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet

The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) facilitates Affordable Connectivity Program applications.FCC

To apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program, or to see if you're eligible follow this link. Whitehouse.gov also has instructions for inquiring enrollees.

The WhiteHouse states in their press release that 20 leading internet service providers are joining forces with the Biden-Harris administration to address American's needs for internet service. Among the companies that have been announced as joining this initiative are: AT&T, Comcast, Spectrum, Cox Communications, and other providers that can reach rural customers.

The Biden-Harris administration note that,

High-speed internet service is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Lowering prices of high-speed internet is one of President Biden's top priorities.

Credits:

The White House

Federal Communication Commission