Thousands of South Carolinians at risk of losing affordable high-speed internet
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Photo: Federal Communications Commission website
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Thousands of low-income South Carolinians could be at risk of paying more for high-speed internet or losing access altogether this spring.
The 2021 launched Affordable Connectivity Program has helped nearly 425,500 South Carolina households by reducing their internet bills $30 to $75 monthly and providing a one-time discount on laptop, desktop or tablet purchases.
Due to the program South Carolina families have been saving about $12.6 million total each month on their internet bills, according to the White house.
The Federal Communications Commission sent out a formal notice announcing that due to lack of funds from Congress, April will be the last month for the program.
President Biden made a post in February on the matter, alerting people to what will happen if the program ends.
One in six American households is saving $30-$75 each month on their internet bills because of our Affordable Connectivity Program.
If it expires, millions may no longer be able to get online at a lower cost.
We can’t let that happen.
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 8, 2024
According to a survey by the FCC, more than three-quarters of ACP households will experience service disruptions if the program ends.
