The Vital Importance of Continuing the Affordable Connectivity Program

Launched in January 2022 by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Affordable Connectivity Program aimed to bridge the digital divide by offering monthly subsidies for fixed and mobile Internet services. The ACP has been vital for low-income families and underserved communities, providing Internet access to millions of households. Despite its success, the program expired in 2024. As a result, there is an urgent need to address the growing gap in broadband accessibility and affordability

Visualizing the Impact of the ACP

To illustrate the ACP's significance and assess the repercussions of its termination, Rural LISC developed the methodology for tracking ACP utilization and partnered with CORI to release a new map that tracks program utilization across various regions over time. The map highlights a steady increase in enrollment in persistent poverty counties, demonstrating the program's profound impact.

You can access the full interactive map via the Center on Rural Innovation's (CORI) website by clicking on the image or the hyperlink. There, you can explore the evolution of ACP enrollment across zip codes and its impact on households over time.

The Case for Refunding the ACP

The Affordable Connectivity Program has demonstrated its value by improving access to education, public safety, telehealth, and economic opportunities for low-income subscribers. Restarting this program is crucial for vulnerable individuals and the overall vitality of local economies and communities.

The ACP's broad impact supports the case for its reinstatement. Guaranteeing affordable and dependable Internet access empowers individuals and promotes economic resilience, contributing to a more equitable digital future.