As I noted in a recent post to the FSF Blog, the $900 billion COVID-19 relief package recently signed into law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 includes $3.2 billion for an FCC-run Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (the Program).
The Program will reimburse participating broadband Internet service providers (ISPs) that offer discounts to eligible low-income households and those that have experienced financial hardship during the current public health crisis. The maximum amount of the discount on the standard rate is $50/month ($75/month on Tribal lands).
In addition, ISPs can receive a one-time payment, up to $100, for making available a subsidized connected device (tablet, laptop, or desktop).
The Program will run until six months after the end of the pandemic or the $3.2 billion in funding has been depleted, whichever comes first.
On January 4, 2021, the Commission publicized the release by the Wireline Competition Bureau of a Public Notice seeking comment on how best to administer the Program. It seeks input on a number of topics, including ISP, household, service, and device eligibility; expedited approval of ISP applications; the reimbursement process; awareness promotion; and auditing, enforcement, and reporting requirements.
Comments are due on January 25 and reply comments on February 16.
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