WASHINGTON — Millions of low-income Americans will be able to get high-speed internet service for up to $30 a month under a deal the Biden administration has struck with major internet service providers.
Twenty Internet service providers, including AT&T, Comcast and Verizon, have agreed to increase their Internet speeds or reduce the price of their services for eligible households, according to senior administration officials who spoke under cover of ‘anonymity.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will announce the deal at the White House on Monday. The announcement is part of the administration’s efforts to expand access to fast and affordable internet service in rural areas and on tribal lands.
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The bipartisan Infrastructure Act that Congress passed last year allows some low-income families to receive a monthly benefit of $30 or $75 a month on tribal lands to help pay for broadband service. Those who apply this benefit to one of the broadband plans covered by the deal to be announced on Monday will essentially get high-speed internet service at no cost.
Around 48 million households, or nearly 40% of those nationwide, are eligible for the broadband benefit. To ensure eligible families take advantage of the offer, the administration will launch a website (GetInternet.gov) that will provide details on how they can sign up and find participating Internet service providers in their region.
Households with an annual income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, or about $27,000 for an individual or $55,000 for a family of four, are eligible for the benefit program. Families may also be eligible if they are enrolled in other federal programs, such as Pell Grants, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income.
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