The FCC has unanimously voted to adopt a Report and Order implementing the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, which is expected to open within 60 days. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, allocated the Program $3.2 billion, which will be used to provide a discount of up to $50 per month off the standard rate for an internet service offering for eligible households and up to $75 on Tribal lands. The funding will also be used for discounts of up to $100 on computers and tablets for eligible households.
Those deemed eligible for the Program will include: (1) households that participate in an existing low-income or pandemic relief program offered by a broadband provider; (2) Lifeline subscribers, including those who are on Medicaid or accept SNAP benefits; (3) households with kids receiving free and reduced-price lunch or school breakfast; (4) Pell grant recipients; and (5) those who have lost jobs and seen their income reduced in the last year.
