States consider capping the cost of broadband for low-income families

Dozens of states appear to be set to cap how much broadband providers can charge low-income households. But the idea isn’t popular with industry groups and House Republicans, who argue that regulating rates is not the purpose of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. While the proposed caps being considered vary by state, several would limit rates for low-income people to $30 a month. Should Congress opt to continue the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides a $30-a-month subsidy to low-income households for broadband, the cost of internet service could drop to zero in some states. The idea of limiting how much broadband companies can charge is coming under fire from some House conservatives. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) said the National Telecommunications and Information Administration should reject what he called “attempts to regulate rates.” Some proposals have also been criticized by the broadband industry group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. A spokesperson for NCTA argued that the infrastructure act was aimed at “building broadband infrastructure, rather than setting prices.”