WASHINGTON - A new program launched by the Biden administration offers free internet service to some 48 million households in America.President Biden announced last week that 20 internet companies have agreed to provide discounted service — $30 a month — to people with low incomes.
Under the Affordable Connectivity Program, eligible Americans can receive $30 monthly subsidies, making internet service fully paid for with government assistance if they sign up with one of the participating providers.The 20 internet companies that have agreed to lower their rates provide service in areas where 80% of the U.S.
population, including 50% of the rural population, live, according to the White House. Participating companies that offer service on tribal lands are providing $75 rates in those areas, the equivalent of the federal government subsidy.Families of four earning about $55,000 annually are eligible.
About 40% of Americans will qualify, Biden said.MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - AUGUST 30: (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) The $1 trillion infrastructure package passed by Congress last year included $14.2 billion in funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program.