Congress; renew or extend the Affordable Connectivity Program through 2024; urge
If the ACP is not renewed, the resolution states that many households in Georgia could face disconnection from their internet services, adversely affecting their access to essential services like healthcare and education. The financial support provided by the ACP totals $14.2 billion since its inception, with significant benefits reaching over 20 million American households, including 625,000 in Georgia. This underscores the program's role in preventing the digital divide from widening further, especially in the current socio-economic climate where online access is becoming increasingly essential.
House Resolution 870 urges Congress to renew or extend the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) through 2024, emphasizing the need for affordable high-speed internet service for qualifying households in Georgia. The resolution highlights the significance of digital access in promoting equity across education, healthcare, and workforce opportunities. As the resolution points out, the ACP was established under the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, which aims to make internet plans more affordable and encourage investments from internet service providers (ISPs) in underserved communities.
The urgency expressed in the resolution reflects a growing concern among lawmakers and constituents alike regarding the potential impacts of discontinuing the ACP. It is noted that without congressional action, the program's funds will deplete by spring 2024, leaving millions without affordable internet access. Given the societal reliance on digital connectivity, particularly in the wake of increased remote services, the denial of such access raises issues of equity and social justice. The discussion around this resolution is underscored by a significant public support of over 75% for continuing funding for the ACP, indicating a strong bipartisan backing for its extension.