U.S. Rep. Lawrence Announces New Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

Press Release

Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Representative Brenda L. Lawrence (MI-14) announced the launch of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program and urged eligible Michiganders to enroll to receive a discount on their monthly bill. The EBB 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 final omnibus appropriations bill in December. The EBB Program, managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will provide struggling families a discount of $50, or $75 on tribal lands, off the monthly cost of home internet service. it may also provide an additional subsidy for a computer. Internet providers who participate in the program can apply to the FCC for reimbursement.

"From virtual classrooms to telehealth visits, the pandemic has made access to reliable, high-speed internet more important than ever. That's why I supported the enactment of the Emergency Broadband Benefit last year, because internet service is a necessity, not a luxury," said Rep. Lawrence. "I encourage any Michigander who may be struggling right now to see if they qualify for this new program, and then sign up by contacting their internet provider. I'll continue working hard in Congress to expand internet access and improve affordability so that every household, regardless of zip code, has reliable, high-speed service."

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 through their internet service provider.

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