Bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus Backs Legislation to Protect Internet Access for Low-Income Families

The bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus announced its endorsement of the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, legislation that will facilitate the continuation of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) through the end of 2024. The program is currently on track to shut down at the end of April, disrupting broadband access for tens of millions of Americans. The bipartisan legislation was introduced by Reps Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Yvette Clarke (D-NT) and has 215 additional cosponsors, 41 of whom are Members of the Problem Solvers Caucus. Established in January 2022, the ACP has connected over 23 million US households—more than one in six—with access to high-speed, reliable internet. Under the program, low-income households can receive up to $30 each month to supplement the cost of internet service as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a computer or tablet. The Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act will fund the program through the end of the year while lawmakers work to identify a more permanent solution.