EBS In Action

EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFIT PROGRAM REPORT AND ORDER PROPOSED

FCC to Create the Rules for a Federally Funded Broadband Discount Program for Low-Income Households

The FCC has circulated a Report and Order that, if adopted, would establish the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, a $3.2 billion federal initiative to provide qualifying households discounts on their internet service bills and an opportunity to receive a discount on a computer or tablet. 

According to Acting FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel, “With the help of the Emergency Broadband Benefit, we have a new way for households to access virtual learning, for patients to connect to telehealth providers, and for those struggling in this pandemic to learn new online skills and seek their next job.”

The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program was created by Congress in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021.  Through the program, eligible households may receive a discount off the cost of broadband service (up to $50.00 per month and, on Tribal lands, the monthly discount may be up to $75.00 per month) and certain connected devices during an emergency period relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Participating providers can be reimbursed for such discounts.

The proposed Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Report and Order:

• Opens the program to all types of broadband providers;
• Requires providers to deliver the qualifying broadband service to eligible households to receive reimbursement from the Program; and
• Encourages eligible households to affirmatively indicate their interest in the program.

Households are eligible when a member of the household:

• Qualifies for the FCC’s Lifeline program;
• Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program;
• Experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020;
• Received a Federal Pell Grant; or
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating providers’ existing low-income or COVID-19 program.