FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel Responds to Congress Regarding the Status of the Affordable Connectivity Program

On January 8, 2024, Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel wrote a letter updating lawmakers on the status of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Launched in 2021 under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Affordable Connectivity Program is the largest internet affordability program in US history, and has enrolled nearly 23 million households, helping close the digital divide by bringing more households online. The FCC expects funding for the ACP to last through April 2024, and run out completely in May. In her letter, Chairwoman Rosenworcel outlined the next steps the FCC will take if Congress does not provide additional funding for the ACP. "First, the Commission will offer ACP providers guidance on the timing and requirements for notifying participating households about the projected end of the ACP," she said. "To avoid consumer confusion and minimize the risk of consumer bill shock, providers must give consumers specific, frequent notice about the projected end of the program and their ACP discount, and how that will impact their internet bill. Second, the Commission will announce a date for stopping the enrollment of new households in the ACP ... Third, the Commission will formally determine the projected end date for the program."