From the Office of Senator Welch:
Welch to Unveil Bill to Extend the Affordable Connectivity Program, Convene Broadband Leaders to Discuss Closing the Digital Divide in Vermont
On January 12, Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) will join broadband leaders from across Vermont at Burlington City Hall to discuss the introduction of the bipartisan, bicameral Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, which will provide $7 billion for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program helps provide affordable high-speed internet to qualifying households in Vermont and across the America. The program, which is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is projected to run out of funding by April without action by Congress.
Since its implementation, 22.5 million households–including over 25,000 Vermont households–have utilized the program’s monthly discount of up to $30 for internet service, and up to $75 monthly for those living on Tribal lands. The program has been utilized by over 800,000 veterans, one million college students, 3.1 million families with a K-12 student receiving free or reduced-price lunch, and 5 million seniors across the United States.
The Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act is supported by government and telecommunications leaders, and over 400 organizations nationwide.
Guests include: Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.); Christine Halquist, Vermont Community Broadband Board; Paige Hartsell, NEK Community Action; Christa Shute, NEK Broadband