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Five things about the US Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

With a $14 billion appropriation from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has enrolled some 18 million households in a short period of time. ACP may be the most effective broadband benefit program to date with its direct-to-consumer model. Eligible households can receive a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service (up to $75 per month for eligible households on Tribal lands) and a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.

  1. Direct to Consumer Model. A broadband voucher goes directly to the eligible, authenticated user without intermediaries.
  2. The best anti-poverty program for the money. People use the broadband connection to get a job, start a business, and learn new skills.
  3. Like school choice, it’s broadband choice. People use the voucher to select their preferred broadband provider and technology with a sufficient monthly budget for quality subscription and a device.
  4. Competition. Users’ freedom to choose and the technological neutrality of the program creates competition in broadband and service market.
  5. Funding. However beneficial this program, the funding will run out in 2024. There are innovative ways to fund this valuable program going forward without putting the burden on taxpayers or through deficit spending.
  6. Sustainable Funding. However beneficial this program, the funding will run out in 2024. There are innovative ways to fund this valuable program going forward without putting the burden on taxpayers or through deficit spending.

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