[Libs-Or] Upcoming Emergency Broadband Benefit Changes

[WEIBLE Arlene * SLO]

The recently passed infrastructure bill includes changes to emergency broadband benefits. The Affordable Connectivity Program will replace the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. The new program moves away from being just a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and refocuses on long-term affordability issues.

Here are some changes to the program:


  *   The maximum monthly benefit will change from $50 per month to $30 per month for households not located on qualifying Tribal lands. The monthly benefit will remain at $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
  *   Households have new ways to qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program such as: receiving WIC benefits or having an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines<https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines>.
  *   Households that qualified for the Emergency Broadband Benefit due to a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020 or by meeting the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's COVID-19 program will need to requalify for the Affordable Connectivity Program.


Applications<https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit> are still being accepted for the Emergency Broadband Benefit.  Households enrolled in the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program as of 12/31/21 will continue to receive their current monthly benefit during a 60-day transition period.

If you want to preview more of the proposed changes to come, the FCC is currently seeking comments<https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-seeks-comment-new-affordable-connectivity-program> on the rules for the new program through Dec. 28, 2021.


Arlene Weible, MLS (she/her/hers)
Electronic Services Consultant
Oregon Federal Regional Depository Coordinator
State Library of Oregon
arlene.weible at slo.oregon.gov<mailto:arlene.weible at state.or.us> | 503-378-5020 | http://www.oregon.gov/library/libraries
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