5/9/22 -More Low-Income Families Will Be Able To Get Internet

The Biden administration today is announcing that a number of internet companies have agreed to provide discounted service to low-income Americans.

WASHINGTON – Millions of low-income Americans will be able to get high-speed internet service for no more than $30 a month.

It is part of a program that could effectively make millions of households eligible for free service through an already existing federal subsidy. 

There are 20 internet providers, including AT&T, Comcast and Verizon, that have agreed to increase their internet speeds or cut the price of their services for eligible households. 

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will announce the deal at the White House today.  

The infrastructure law that congress passed last year allows certain low-income families to receive a $30 monthly benefit or $75 a month on tribal lands to help pay for broadband service. Those who apply that benefit to one of the broadband plans covered under the deal will essentially get high-speed internet service at no cost.

About 48 million households, or nearly 40% of those in the country, are eligible for the broadband benefit.

A website (GetInternet.gov) will be launched to provide details about how they can sign up and find participating internet providers in their area.