Status Report: The ACP hasn't been extended (YET!)...

With current funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) sunsetting, folks are wondering what's happening and what the next steps are for maintaining access to affordable Internet. At FreeConnect, we consider it our job to help make sense of the government's mixed signals by giving you the low-down on the ACP. 

Here's what you need to know about the status of the ACP.

What's the status of the ACP?

Concerned about the status of the ACP? You're not alone. Unfortunately, the program was not part of the spending package that Congress just passed, leaving many to wonder when the extension act will be addressed again, if at all. There have been whispers of a second vote to extend the ACP in mid-April before its expiration date. However, despite widespread support from both sides of the aisle, there are no guarantees that the bill will pass.  

If I Have ACP Service, What Do I Do?

We get this question all the time. If you’ve already applied your ACP discount to your Internet service, your bill will remain at a discounted rate until your provider either decides to charge you full price again, or the ACP funding runs out. Your Internet provider is required to send out an email and a written letter to inform you of any pending increase to your bill.

So, What Does This Mean for My Bill?

We all dread getting a letter in the mail saying our bill is increasing. Unfortunately, this is the reality ACP customers can expect when funding runs dry at the end of April. With the $30 bill credit no longer in effect, participants in the program can expect to see an increase in their Internet bill, with the amount varying by provider. But all is not lost! We've got a plan to help our ACP customers as best we can, which we cover below.

Can I Still Get Affordable Internet?

So here's the good news. At FreeConnect, it’s always been our goal to get you the sweetest Internet deals that our partner providers can offer. Now, we understand that nothing beats free, but we’ve been working to ensure you can stay connected to what matters without breaking the bank. This is why we've teamed up with a few of our partners, and we will be able to connect ACP customers to Internet Service nationwide for as little as $19.99/month. We’re excited to share that these special deals will drop shortly, regardless of the status of the ACP. So keep an eye on our blog or sign up for our newsletter to find out as soon as they're available!

How Can I Help Bring The ACP Back?

Your voice is your most powerful tool right now. We recommend reaching out to your representatives in both the Senate and Congress to tell them how the ACP has impacted your life and why it’s so important that the program remain funded. At FreeConnect, we know your ability to access healthcare, job resources, educational material, and entertainment online is crucial. Still, the people who make the rules in Congress need to hear from you the most. 

Contact Your Representatives!!!

Contact your U.S. representative Here. & Contact your U.S. Senator Here.

We urge you to call, email, and send letters to your representatives and discuss this issue with friends and family who are open to listening. The greater the awareness, the more pressure we can put on the legislature, and the better our chance of making an impact. Looking for information on why the ACP is a good thing? Check out our Article on the ACP here!