Millions of Americans, including veterans and low-income families, are at risk of losing their subsidized internet access as the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is set to expire at the end of May. The program, which provides a monthly subsidy of $30 to $75, has been crucial in bridging the digital divide for over 23 million recipients by enhancing their access to online resources, essential services, and connectivity.
Walter Prescher, a Methodist pastor and Army veteran in rural Texas, highlighted the program’s impact, noting that the subsidy helped facilitate his children’s education and extracurricular activities by making internet access affordable. With ACP support, the internet speeds allowed his family to reduce the time spent on homework from three hours to 45 minutes for a significant portion of the assignments.
The expiration of this subsidy comes at a time when the necessity for reliable internet has never been more critical, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic which has shifted many aspects of daily life to digital platforms. For many, the program has enabled telehealth services, online education, and job applications, which are particularly vital for veterans and others dealing with health issues remotely.
Bipartisan efforts led by Representatives Yvette Clarke and Brian Fitzpatrick are underway to extend the ACP through the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act. This act aims to provide temporary relief while Congress works on long-term solutions to ensure the program’s sustainability. The urgency of this extension is echoed by various stakeholders, including veterans’ groups, given that approximately one million veterans depend on ACP for accessing telehealth services and other online resources crucial for their well-being.
The push for extending ACP underscores the broader acknowledgment that internet access is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s digital world. As legislators and policymakers scramble to find a resolution, the looming deadline threatens to widen the digital divide for millions unless prompt action is taken to renew or extend funding for this critical program.