Connected Nation applauds House and Senate work to advance bipartisan Affordable Connectivity Extension Act

Washington, DC (August 1, 2024) – Tom Ferree, Chairman & CEO of Connected Nation (CN), issued the following statement regarding the recent bipartisan efforts to fund the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which sunset in June 2024 after previous funding ran out:

“In an encouraging sign for the future of broadband connectivity for struggling US households, the Senate Commerce Committee yesterday advanced the Affordable Connectivity Extension Act to fund the Affordable Connectivity Fund with $7 billion. A companion bill was introduced Tuesday  in the House of Representatives. This bicameral, bipartisan effort is a beacon of hope for the more than 23 million households that relied on the ACP for internet access.

“Connected Nation encourages Congress to pass the ACP Extension Act to restore a program that’s crucial for enabling low-income Americans to take part in the 21st century digital economy and society. The ACP not only benefits those enrolled in the program but our economy at large. It’s also not lost on me that today the global community marks “World Wide Web Day”—a day to recognize the benefits and resources the internet provides. To be disconnected means losing access to better goods and services, educational opportunities, jobs, government programs, superior health care and specialists, and connects us to one another.

“We applaud those Senators and Representatives who recognize this and are taking action to help millions of Americans. Let’s keep working together to ensure ALL people are connected. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.”

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About Us: Connected Nation is a national nonprofit founded in 2001 with a mission to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.