Vets Were There for U.S., Let's Make Sure ACP Is There for Vets

On November 11 each year, we are asked to recognize that our military and veteran families answer our Nation’s call to duty—and we recommit to doing right by their service and sacrifice. This year that recommitment must include ensuring that our veterans don't fall onto the wrong side of the digital divide. This year, our recommitment to veterans must include a recommitment to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Over 800,000 households with veterans participate in the ACP. For these veterans, ACP is a lifeline—a literal lifeline. But the ACP is running out of funding, meaning over 800,000 veterans could soon lose internet service or face higher monthly bills. President Joe Biden has proposed to fully fund ACP through 2024, but Congress has not yet acted. We can't let this happen. For 50 years, the U.S. has relied on our all-volunteer military. For those who raised their hands and said, "I'll go," we owe more than parades and Thank Yous; we need to keep our promises. This Veterans Day, we must recommit to veterans and to the ACP that keeps them connected.

[Adrianne B. Furniss is the Executive Director of the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society.]