The Biden administration will announce a new deal with major internet service providers to provide high-speed internet to low-income housing at no more than $30 a month. AT&T, Comcast and Verizon were among the 20 internet service providers to agree to the deal, which will include increasing the speed of their cheapest internet offerings and lowering the bill for low-income customers.
It’s part of Biden’s plan to increase internet access to rural communities and tribal lands, a priority of his administration. Last year, Congress passed a bipartisan bill that allows low-income families to apply for a $30 monthly benefit (or $75 on tribal lands) for broadband service. With this new agreement, families using that benefit will essentially receive high speed internet at no cost. It is expected to apply to roughly 48 million households — roughly 40 percent of the country.
A new website called GetInternet.com will be launched in the coming days to help families determine if they’re eligible and how to apply. Individuals making $27,000 or less, or families of four making $55,000 or less, can sign up.
