Whereas, Congress has directed the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to administer the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which is a successor program to the Emergency Broadband Benefit, a program that helped almost nine million households nationwide afford internet access during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the provisions of the ACP, eligible households may receive up to thirty dollars per month toward internet service. For households on qualifying tribal lands, this benefit may increase to seventy-five dollars per month. The ACP also provides that eligible households may receive a one-time discount of up to one hundred dollars to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers; and
Whereas, Where broadband internet access is available, the ACP allows subscribers to afford internet speeds and devices sufficient for key online activities, such as at-home learning, health care, banking, and public services. Where broadband access is not available, the ACP incentivizes the deployment of new broadband infrastructure; and
Whereas, The FCC recently announced that, due to a lack of additional funding provided for the ACP, it would begin the process of terminating the program. Over 900,000 households within the State of Michigan are currently enrolled in the ACP and are at risk of losing affordable access to internet services in 2024 if Congress does not fund an extension of the program. The ACP is a critical program for Michigan citizens and, along with other sources of state funding, is a vital means to build and improve broadband infrastructure, provide internet devices to those who lack them, and promote the adoption of modern technology among our least-connected citizens. All these factors demonstrate that the ACP is an essential catalyst for Michigan’s economic growth, workforce development, and innovation. Allowing this program to end would be a great disservice to Michiganians who rely on the program to access vital online services and resources; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we affirm this chamber’s commitment to supporting an extension of the Affordable Connectivity Program, recognizing that this program provides Michigan citizens statewide with access to affordable broadband services; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the Michigan congressional delegation.
Co-sponsored by Sens.
Adopted in the Senate by voice vote
