"For a very few, the federal Lifeline program may partially reduce their home internet bill. Others may sacrifice performance to save money by opting for a low-cost plan offered by a provider. Some households may sacrifice other essentials, like food, to keep internet access - while others may allow their subscription to lapse in order to pay other bills."
"Help is on the way. The affordability report gives some examples of low-cost broadband services being offered at the state level. Examples are low-cost plans for $15 or less in New York; state lifeline reform; one-time subsidies (such as in Maryland and South Carolina); low-income housing incentives; consumer protections and transparency measures; and enhanced competition and consumer choice."
Millions of Americans remain offline, and states now carry primary responsibility for expanding affordability and access following the end of federal programs. The Affordable Connectivity Program expired, leaving consumers with limited federal options and few alternatives. A small number of households might get partial relief from Lifeline, while others may accept lower-performance plans or forgo service and essential expenses. States are deploying varied measures such as very low-cost plans, lifeline reforms, one-time subsidies, housing incentives, consumer protections, transparency rules, and steps to boost competition. No single solution fits all; states must consider resources, markets, timelines, stakeholder positions, enrollment strategies, and outreach, and can use six strategic conditions and a chart of facilitating conditions to guide program design.
Read at Telecompetitor
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