Financially struggling American families can get immediate discounts on Internet services under the COVID-19 relief program, which came into effect on Wednesday.
The Federal Communications Commission's Emergency Broadband Benefits Program offers discounts of up to $ 50 per month for broadband services for eligible families and $ 75 per month for families in eligible tribal lands. It also offers $ 100 off on purchases of laptops or desktop computers or tablets to low-income families. Cox and Windstream are the only providers interested in this benefit so far, according to FCC data.
The epidemic has emphasized the importance of a stable Internet connection, with adults relying on workers and youth to rely on education. The expansion of high-speed Internet access is a top priority for the Biden administration, an effort handled by Vice President Harris. The White House has asked Congress for $ 100 billion to make broadband cheaper and to transport it to rural areas lagging behind technological development.
"High-speed Internet services are essential for families to take advantage of today's health, education and work opportunities," FCC Executive President Jessica Rosenversel said in a statement. "And after the temporary waiver scheme expires, the refund will continue to have a favorable effect on laptops and desktop computers."
The $ 3.2 billion temporary pandemic was approved by Congress late last year, but the FCC took several months to finalize the program's rules.
The only Americans who already qualify for the free and reduced value meal program are Federal Pell Grant recipients, have experienced significant income losses since early 2020, or existing low income or COVIDs from participating providers -19 can meet the eligibility criteria, they can apply for it. Program. People can use the funds until they run out of funds or for six months the Ministry of Health and Human Services declares the epidemic to end.
Earlier this week, the FCC approved an Emergency Connection Fund, which raised nearly $ 7.2 billion to help schools and libraries provide equipment and connections to students, staff and library users during the epidemic.