Keeping Americans connected after 'Keep Americans Connected' expires

At the Federal Communications Commission’s request, nearly 800 communications companies and trade groups signed the “Keep Americans Connected” pledge. The signatories agreed not to terminate service to any residential or small business customer, and to waive any late fees incurred, due to economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many providers went even farther, increasing speeds and capacity and giving new low-income customers free service for two months. The pledge, initially made for March 15 through May 15, was subsequently expanded to June 30. But the hardships caused by the pandemic crisis will last far longer, especially for at-risk populations. So how do we keep Americans connected after—perhaps long after—the pledge expires? The need for a longer-term solution is critical. After June 30, there are three possible paths we can take.

• One is to extend the pledge. But many communications companies, already saddled with millions of dollars in bad debt, will be unwilling or unable to do that.
• Another option is to simply let the commitments expire. Many customers will likely be disconnected in the process.
• The third and best option is federal government support, similar to what has been seen in other sectors. During the emergency, the federal government must underwrite some of the cost of Internet access, using a voucher program similar to existing Lifeline services, that would directly assist struggling consumers. That way, they can stay online without undue hardship or damage to their credit.