With the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) facing the imminent end of its funding this month, rural community members across the United States are at risk of losing their lifeline to connectivity. The program, which currently provides over 23 million eligible households a discount on their monthly internet bill and a one-time discount off the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet, is winding down. Unless Congress acts quickly to provide additional funding, ACP households will no longer receive the benefit and the program will end in May 2024.
States anxiously await updates from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) regarding the status of their Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) programs; the absence of ACP funding only exacerbates the challenges faced by underserved rural populations.
In the heart of rural America, where the digital divide can be glaringly evident, the ACP has been able to provide affordable internet access to those who would otherwise struggle to afford it. The costs of connectivity in these regions can act as barriers, isolating residents from essential online resources and opportunities. Internet access is essential for full participation in our modern digital economy, providing access to news, education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and entertainment.
The impending end of the ACP serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of affordable broadband access for rural areas. Without sustained funding and support, these communities risk falling further behind in an increasingly digital world, perpetuating disparities and hindering economic development.
While a majority – 58% – of the 24 million offline households express no interest or need to be online, a large proportion say they can’t afford home Internet service (18%). In rural areas, where infrastructure limitations compound the issue, the lack of affordable internet creates challenging hurdles for residents striving to participate fully in an increasingly digital world. The ACP has played a role in addressing this profound disparity by offering subsidies to eligible households, allowing them to access essential online services.
With the program winding down and new enrollments halted, individuals and families in rural communities who rely on this program now face uncertainty and disruption. A recent survey unveiled a stark reality: nearly half of respondents either had no internet service or solely relied on mobile internet before receiving ACP benefits. This trend is particularly pronounced among rural respondents, with 53% reporting limited or no internet access prior to the program’s inception.
Organizations dedicated to enrolling rural residents in the ACP have invested considerable time and effort in building trust and awareness, but the abrupt end of the program leaves both providers and recipients in a state of confusion, undercutting progress and deepening the sense of disenfranchisement among rural populations. Many trusted organizations, including civic groups, religious institutions, and rural advocates, have worked to increase enrollment in the program. If funding is discontinued, these groups will face eroding community trust.
Policymakers must prioritize sustainable, long-term funding solutions to address the urgent need for affordable broadband in rural areas. Short-term measures only perpetuate uncertainty and fail to provide the stability needed for meaningful progress. Investing in digital literacy initiatives alongside broadband infrastructure expansion is essential for ensuring that all Americans, regardless of location or socioeconomic status, can fully participate in the digital economy and enjoy the benefits of connectivity.
With the implementation of programs like BEAD and other federal and state funding initiatives, rural communities can achieve a level playing field of connectivity. Sustainable programs and funding mechanisms must address all the essential components necessary for rural adaptability and affordability. This recognition is particularly vital as resources may be limited in these areas. Long-term funding commitments for programs are necessary and a fundamental investment in our nation’s future prosperity and inclusivity. Policymakers must recognize the situation and take decisive action.
The challenges facing rural connectivity emphasize the necessity of comprehensive, sustainable solutions. While funding is crucial, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To truly bridge the digital divide and ensure success in rural broadband initiatives, policymakers must consider a multifaceted approach that addresses financial support, digital literacy, equity, and affordability. Sustainable programs that encompass these essential components are vital for empowering rural communities, fostering economic growth, and promoting inclusivity. By recognizing the interconnected nature of these factors and prioritizing long-term strategies, we can work towards a future where all Americans, regardless of location or socioeconomic status, have equitable access to the internet’s transformative power.
For those organizations with members enrolled in ACP, please refer to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Wind-Down Fact Sheet.
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