Broadband Affordability and the Emergency Broadband Benefit in California

The purpose of the $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program is to help low-income Americans connect to the Internet during the Covid-19 pandemic. As of October 2021, EBB has more than 6 million recipients (about 700 thousand in California) and Congress is discussing several proposals to transition the EBB into a permanent broadband subsidy program. This policy brief examines broadband affordability in California and explores awareness and adoption of the EBB program among low-income California households. For the majority of low-income households that subscribe to broadband, the cost of service exceeds the federal affordability threshold, and many report cutting on essential expenses to pay for high-speed Internet. Only a small share of potential EBB recipients is aware of the program, and findings suggest the need for increased outreach efforts among older adults and in immigrant communities. Additionally, a lack of information about eligibility requirements and the application process deter potential recipients from applying to EBB and other affordable Internet programs. The findings of this report indicate that EBB seems to be helping many, but failing to reach those who need it most. A variety of policy and community initiatives must be put in place to increase program awareness and provide support for those in need of the EBB.