AT&T Statement on Need to Address Current Subsidy Program for Low-Income Americans

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated shifts in how we communicate and magnified the importance of broadband connectivity for all Americans. We commend FCC Commissioner Carr for his remarks highlighting the urgent need to address the meltdown of the current subsidy program for low-income Americans. While we advocate for direct Congressional appropriations, Commissioner Carr’s proposal to broaden the contributions base to include companies that benefit directly from broadband networks, as well as proposed legislation to dedicate spectrum auction proceeds to the low-income subsidy program, are also possible ways to help close the digital divide. We will continue to seek a sustainable approach to broadband connectivity for low-income Americans.