On January 21, 2022, the FCC released the final rules for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) which builds upon the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB), to offer eligible low-income households discounts off the cost of broadband service and connected devices. The FCC’s Report and Order establish the requirements and processes of the Affordable Connectivity Program as required by the Infrastructure Act.
In addition, the Commission seeks comment on other facets of the infrastructure act and proposals for increasing awareness of and participation in the ACP, “Specifically we seek comment on structuring an outreach grant program and implementing a mechanism for determining the application of the enhanced benefit for those serving high-cost areas, as to be determined by the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA). We also seek comment on a potential pilot program focused on increasing the awareness and enrollment of eligible households participating in Federal Public Housing Assistance Programs in the Affordable Connectivity Program.”
Comments will be due within 60-days of publication of the rulemaking in the Federal Register. Reply Comments will be due 30-days thereafter.
The full text of the Report and Order/ Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is available here
