Enrollment in the FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit Program has now hit 6 million, up from somewhat more than 5 million only four weeks ago.
The EBB program gives discounts of $50 (and up to $75 on Tribal lands) to qualifying households on their monthly internet bill. Additionally, some of the nearly 1200 providers that have agreed to participate in the program also offer a one-time $100 discount on a computer, laptop, or connected device.
Households eligible for the program include those using existing assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline or have a child who relies on certain reduced-price school meals programs. The EBB program is also open to households who are eligible for a broadband provider’s existing COVID relief program and to those who have received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, as well as to those low-income households who suffered a large loss in income during the pandemic due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.
“The response to the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program confirms what many of us knew to be true: too many families remain offline because it’s too expensive for their monthly budget,” said Jessica Rosenworcel, FCC acting chairwoman, in a prepared statement. about the latest FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit enrollment milestone. “Now, thanks to the Emergency Broadband Benefit, millions of kids can better keep up with their schoolwork, parents can train for their next jobs, and patients can stay in contact with their doctors. The FCC is not stopping until we reach as many eligible families so they too can get the support they need.”
