Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) and Mike Carey (R-OH-15) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to renew the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) – a federal program that helps low-income households afford access to high-speed internet. The Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of funding in May, ending assistance for over 23 million American households. Bipartisan companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), J.D. Vance (R-OH), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).

For nearly three years, the Affordable Connectivity Program helped families afford the high-speed internet services they need to work remotely, complete online coursework, attend telehealth appointments and more. The Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act would restore the program and provide eligible households with a monthly discount of up to $30 per month off the cost of their internet service.

In addition to restoring internet assistance for low-income Americans, the Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act also replaces insecure wireless internet equipment from Chinese Communist Party-associated corporations, like Huawei and ZTE. The legislation is paid for by renewing the Federal Communications Commission’s ability to auction AWS-3 band spectrum to U.S. telecom providers and by narrowing Affordable Connectivity Program eligibility from households with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line to households at or below 135% of the federal poverty line – consistent with the income standard of other federal subsidies like Lifeline and Medicare Part D. 

“In today’s connected world, it’s vitally important that everyone has access to fast and reliable internet. From our hospitals and schools to families in remote areas – we all depend on connectivity. I’m proud to cosponsor the Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act, which will expand the affordability and accessibility of broadband services for Michiganders and all Americans,” said Rep. Jack Bergman. 

“Access to high-speed internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. For nearly three years, the Affordable Connectivity Program’s $30 monthly credit helped connect nearly 23 million low-income households to internet access. This includes 50,000 families in Illinois’ 13th Congressional District. But despite its success, Congress failed to keep this transformative program funded. Today, I’m introducing a bipartisan compromise to renew the Affordable Connectivity Program for families in Central and Southern Illinois and across the country,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski.

“Internet access opens doors, from helping kids do their homework to learning new skills and applying for jobs. Unfortunately, close to a million Ohioans lack access to high-speed internet. This bill will close that gap. That’s why we’re proud to join Rep. Budzinski in this effort to make sure every American has reliable, affordable internet access,” said Rep. Mike Carey.

The Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act has been endorsed by AARP, the American Civil Liberties Union, Common Sense Media, Benton Institute, Accolade, Public Knowledge, INCOMPAS, R Street Institute, Affordable Broadband Campaign, New America, Emerios, Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) and CTIA.

Read the full text of the bill here.