How FCC Could Rescue the Affordable Connectivity Program

As April unfolds, so does the impending conclusion of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), leaving its 23 million enrolled households facing uncertain connectivity. Yet, proponents of broadband accessibility assert that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) holds the key to salvaging the program.

While April 1st may invite pranks, the looming closure of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is no laughing matter. Broadband advocates emphasize that the FCC possesses the authority to avert the funding shortfall endangering the ACP.

With April serving as the final month of full ACP funding before transitioning to reduced benefits in May, and Congress failing to allocate extension funds in recent spending legislation, attention turns to the FCC for a resolution. Notably, former FCC officials advocate for expanding the Lifeline program, part of the Universal Service Fund (USF), as a means to sustain a semblance of the ACP and safeguard broadband subsidies for millions.

Gigi Sohn, a prominent broadband advocate and spokesperson for the Affordable Broadband Campaign, underscores the FCC's capacity to mitigate the impact of connectivity loss. Drawing on her experience at the FCC under former Chair Tom Wheeler, Sohn emphasizes the agency's potential role in alleviating the situation.

A recent petition for expedited rulemaking, filed by Conexon Partner Jonathan Chambers, echoes this sentiment. Chambers urges the FCC to initiate a rulemaking process to incorporate a Home Broadband benefit into the Lifeline program, countering the repercussions of ACP funding depletion.

Chambers highlights the FCC's mandate, rooted in the 1934 Communications Act, to uphold universal service and ensure equitable access to telecommunications services. His proposal suggests augmenting Lifeline subsidies to match current ACP benefits, alongside adjusting eligibility criteria and service specifications.

While acknowledging that this solution may not address all ACP participants, Chambers asserts its potential to aid those most vulnerable. Greg Guice, another former FCC official and advocate for affordable broadband, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the FCC's ability to adapt Lifeline to serve low-income households.

In addition to addressing immediate concerns, advocates stress the need for broader reforms within the USF, particularly in terms of contribution mechanisms. Proposals to include broadband revenues in the contribution base garner support as a means to bolster Lifeline and ACP initiatives.

Despite resistance from some quarters, advocates argue that comprehensive data collection and analysis are essential in informing policy decisions. They advocate for a deliberative approach that considers the diverse perspectives and implications of USF contribution reform.

Moreover, advocates emphasize the FCC's influence in urging Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to maintain ACP enrollment for their subscribers. Drawing parallels with past initiatives during the pandemic, they highlight the FCC's persuasive power in safeguarding essential services for vulnerable populations.

Ultimately, the fate of the Affordable Connectivity Program rests in the hands of the FCC. Advocates underscore the agency's responsibility and urge swift action to preserve vital broadband subsidies for millions of households.