As early as May, over 23 million US households face the imminent threat of losing their internet plans or confronting substantial bill hikes, potentially forcing them to pay hundreds more annually to stay connected online, as reported by Brian Fung for CNN.
At the heart of the issue is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a critical government initiative set to exhaust its funding by the end of April.
This looming crisis could impact nearly one-fifth of households nationwide, equivalent to nearly 60 million Americans, based on Census Bureau population estimates.
The anticipated disruptions in internet access could severely affect various aspects of people's lives, including education, employment, healthcare access, and public services. At the heart of the issue is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a critical government initiative set to exhaust its funding by the end of April.
The program offers discounts on internet service to qualifying low-income households, providing crucial financial assistance.
Despite awareness of the impending deadline, Congress has yet to approve the $6 billion needed to renew the ACP, risking a significant emergency just months before the pivotal 2024 election.
Advocates have expressed concern that the recent budget deal, intended to avert a government shutdown, lacks funding for the program, heightening the likelihood of financial distress for millions of Americans.
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