Lawmakers looking to extend federal internet aid

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Lawmakers on Capitol Hill say internet access is just as important as running water and electricity.

“What the ACP does is really provide meaningful relief to what has become a basic utility for every business, every farmer and every family across the country,” Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-N.Y.) said.

The ACP, or the Affordable Connectivity Program reduces internet bills by $30 monthly. But, Molinaro warns the money will dry up by late May.

“That money runs out and there will be millions who will lose access, will not be able to afford access to the internet,” Molinaro said.

He introduced legislation to extend the funding for the program. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) supports the bill and says it benefits more than just low-income Americans.

“There’s a lot of working people and people serving in our military who will be impacted by this,” Courtney said.

The FCC estimates that nearly 50% of ACP participants are from military families.

“Particularly at the enlisted level,” Courtney said.

Both Courtney and Molinaro fear, if the money runs out, more than 75% of participants could deal with disruption or lose their internet all together.

“This is not something we want to have happen,” Molinaro said.

“We know for a fact that a lot of people are gonna lose internet access if that happens and that’s not good,” Courtney said.

The FCC told internet service providers to inform households about the program’s potential end. But both lawmakers agree, Congress won’t let that happen.

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