Cárdenas Highlights Federal Program to Lower Internet Bills for Families
The Affordable Connectivity Program has helped 10 million families nationwide, 300,000 families in California’s 29th Congressional District
SAN FERNANDO VALLEY — Today Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA-29) highlighted the Affordable Connectivity Program, a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) benefit from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that has helped more than 10 million families nationwide, including 300,000 in the Northeast San Fernando Valley, afford their internet. Under the program, low-income households can receive a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from participating providers if the family contributes more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.
“Internet service has become a necessity, not a luxury,” said Congressman Cárdenas. “In today’s world, it’s nearly impossible to do anything – work, learn, go to doctors’ appointments, stay in touch with loved ones – unless you have internet at home. That’s why I fought in Congress to make sure every family in the San Fernando Valley can get connected to opportunity online.”
“I encourage anyone who may be struggling right now to see if they qualify for this program,” continued Congressman Cárdenas. “If you do, you will receive up to $30 off your internet bill and up to $100 off a laptop, computer or tablet.”
A study found that 84% of Californians had high-speed internet at home in 2019—up from 74% in 2017. However, significant gaps in broadband access persist. According to the study, 81% of Black households and 79% of Latino households have broadband internet subscriptions. The study also found that 26% of K-12 students and nearly 40% of low-income students did not have reliable internet access in Fall 2020.
The Affordable Connectivity Program can help families who:
- Participate in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC or Lifeline;
- Are eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision;
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income internet program.
Families interested in learning more can visit the FCC’s website here.
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