FCC to Stop Accepting New Affordable Connectivity Program Applications After February 7, Anticipating Funds Running Out

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced it will stop accepting new applications for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) after February 7 in anticipation of the program running out of funds by April. The ACP provides financial assistance to low-income households so that they can access affordable broadband internet.  

Without congressional action, one in six households could lose broadband access, according to an FCC spokesperson. According to a letter addressed to the United States Senate by the FCC Secretary Jessica Rosenworcel, the ACP provides over 23 million households access to the internet nationwide. For more information on what this means for your residents, the FCC has put together an FAQ on the winding down of the ACP program. On  February 6, the FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau released a Public Notice containing information about  and a reminder that on Thursday, February 8, 2024 the Enrollment Freeze for the ACP begins.

House and Senate members recently introduced companion legislation S. 3565 and H.R. 6929, the bipartisan Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act of 2024. If enacted, the bill would provide an additional $7 billion to continue the program in 2024, with the funds to remain available until expended. The bicameral and bipartisan bill was introduced by Senators Peter Welch (D-VT), J.D. Vance (R-OH), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Representatives Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Michael Lawler (R-NY-17), Marcus Molinaro (R-NY-19) and Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY-4).  

While the program is slated to end, CLPHA continues to urge members to encourage their U.S. Representatives and Senators to support the legislation. CLPHA will continue to inform members on the status of the bill and any other legislative updates that would continue the ACP.