FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 31, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT: 

e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement regarding the imminent end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) due to Congress’ failure to vote on an extension of the program.

“Access to the internet is an essential part of modern life, and for millions of Americans, the ability to afford internet service was far out of reach. The Affordable Connectivity Program provided a way to bridge the digital divide for over 23 million US households, but congressional inaction has led to its unfortunate end.

“The consequences will be devastating. Soon, many underserved families in rural and urban communities alike will have to make the difficult sacrifice of losing access to telehealth services, online learning, employment opportunities, and so much more. Reliable broadband is essential to our way of life and economy. Without it, millions of families relying on the ACP for internet access will be left out and left behind.

“This nation was founded on the simple principle that no matter who you are, what zip code you live in, or what political party you choose, every single American deserves an equal and fair opportunity to achieve the American Dream. So, I am determined to fight to keep that dream alive and will continue to fight for our most vulnerable communities, older Americans, seniors, veterans, and students. Our fight for the ACP will continue.”

For over 140 days, Congress has had bipartisan support to extend the ACP through the Rep. Clarke-led Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act. Extending the ACP has been an urgent priority of both parties, yet no action has been taken to protect connectivity for over 23 million households across America. 

Since its implementation in President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, over 23 million households utilized the program’s monthly discount of up to $30 for internet service, and up to $75 monthly for households on Tribal lands. The FCC warned Congress the program was nearing exhaustion and was forced to reduce the monthly subscriber rebate to $14 in May and end it entirely in June.

See state-by-state data on the ACP here. 

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