Press Release

PUC Alerts Pennsylvanians: Affordable Connectivity Program Funding is Winding Down

Published on 2/20/2024

Filed under: Telecommunications

Funding Expected to End by April 2024

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today is reminding Pennsylvanians that funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is expected to run out in April 2024, according to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

“The ACP is an important tool that has helped more than 600,000 eligible low-income households in Pennsylvania access the internet,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “We want affected customers to be aware that this benefit may be ending in a few months so they can take steps to ensure their continued access to vital online services needed for telemedicine, telework, online learning and more.

As of Feb. 8, 2024, the program is no longer accepting new enrollments. Households currently enrolled in the program should be receiving written notices from their provider as well as the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) regarding the ACP wind-down and how the end of the ACP will impact their broadband service and bill. Households are also encouraged to consult their internet company directly to learn more about how their service and bill will be affected.

The ACP was a successful broadband affordability program that was funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ACP provided eligible low-income customers with $30 per month for internet access and a one-time payment of $100 for a device purchase. This program has been successful both nationally and in Pennsylvania by providing and maintaining access to the internet for more than 23 million low-income households nationwide, including about 600,000 homes in Pennsylvania.

For more information on the wind-down and how it affects Pennsylvania households, you may visit fcc.gov/ACP and AffordableConnectivity.gov.

Households also are encouraged to research other assistance programs available to help with broadband assistance, including the Lifeline program, which provides consumers up to $9.25 off the cost of phone or internet.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov