Pingree Encourages Eligible Mainers to Reduce Monthly Internet Costs via Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

Press Release

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced the launch of the $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program and urged constituents to check their eligibility to receive a discount on their monthly internet bills by visiting https://getemergencybroadband.org. The EBB was created as part of the omnibus appropriations bill passed by Congress in December 2020.

"Broadband not a luxury, it is a necessity. Over the past year, we've seen how essential it is to connect online to our classrooms, doctors' appointments, and work meetings, but not everyone has affordable internet access. I voted for the Emergency Broadband Benefit to help Mainers reduce their monthly internet bills and stay connected throughout the pandemic. I encourage every Mainer to see if they're eligible for this program," said Pingree.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is a groundbreaking new program that will help economically vulnerable Americans afford their monthly internet bill. The $3.2 billion program was created as part of the omnibus appropriations bill in December, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that open enrollment in the program began today, May 12. The EBB Program will provide eligible families a discount of $50, or $75 on Tribal lands, off the monthly cost of home internet service. The benefit may also provide an additional one-time subsidy for a computer, laptop, or tablet.

Households interested in learning whether they qualify are encouraged to visit the FCC's new enrollment website -- https://getemergencybroadband.org/ -- and then sign up for the program using the online application or through their broadband provider.

Pingree is a member of the bipartisan Rural Broadband Caucus and has been a vocal advocate for increasing connectivity in Maine and across rural America.

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