12 Days of Broadband
Broadband Affordability Falters in 2025
In spite of the political salience of 'affordability,' federal rollbacks, industry pressure, and stalled state efforts took a toll on low-income Americans' broadband.
ACP
The Affordable Connectivity Program was a $14.2 billion program that provided subsidized broadband connections of $30/month, and $75/month for Tribal households. However, the program ended in June 2024 after Congress stopped its funding.
Digital Inclusion
Public Knowledge, NDIA Aiming to Platform Local Advocates
The groups' Connectivity Policy Corps will have a first cohort of 18 advocates from 14 states.
12 Days of Broadband
Universal Service Fund Survived, Faces New Legal and Political Challenges
A follow-on legal case about the USF resumed on Wednesday, Dec. 3, in the Fifth Circuit.
Broadband's Impact
Virginia’s Next Governor an Advocate for Better Broadband
In the House, Spanberger acted to direct the federal government to ensure that broadband networks were built to meet modern upload and download standards.
Oregon
Panel Ties Broadband Affordability to Workforce and AI Readiness
New York’s internet policy illustrates state-driven affordability reform.
Affordability
Advocates Push to Rebuild a Permanent Federal Broadband Subsidy
Calls mount for a modernized Universal Service Fund to address broadband affordability
Broadband Mapping and Data
FCC Proposes to Rollback Some Broadband Transparency Rules
Proposal would remove six consumer disclosure requirements
Digital Inclusion
Sudden Cuts Erode Public Trust, Digital Equity Advocates Say
Disrupted federal support has stalled state efforts in digital literacy, workforce, and affordability programs.
ACP
FCC Demands $1.18 Million in Repayment From Wireless Providers
Boomerang Wireless and Assist Wireless are expected to repay the U.S. Treasury
Expert Opinion
Samantha Schartman and Angela Siefer: A Call to the Research Community
As federal digital equity programs wind down, researchers are needed to help build sustainable models that keep communities connected.
Digital Inclusion
Affordable Connectivity Program Reached More Than Twice the Families of Lifeline
At Georgetown panel, researchers credit public-private partnerships for ACP's 43% take rate vs. Lifeline's 20%.
Expert Opinion
Jill Crosby, Sabrina Burns: Broadband Rollback Undermines Innovation
Policymakers revisiting the USF must recognize that affordable, reliable Internet access is essential for participation in the startup ecosystem.
Congress
House Panel Keeps FCC Budget Flat in 2026
Full committee denies FCC’s $26M budget raise request.
Rural
Rural Co-op Executives Press Congress to Modernize Universal Service Fund
Witnesses pressure lawmakers to update funding model and prioritize affordability.
Digital Inclusion
With ACP Gone, California Turns to LifeLine for Broadband Relief
Three-year pilot adds internet subsidies to the state’s phone discount program.
Broadband's Impact
Charter Hit with Class Action Suit over ACP Guidance
The complaint alleges investors were misled by company executives.
