Summary
February 5, 2024
Chairwoman Kay Granger
House Appropriations Committee
Washington, DC 20515
Chairman Steve Womack
House Appropriation on Financial Services & Government Subcommittee
Washington, DC 20515
Chairwoman Patty Murray
Senate Appropriations Committee
Washington, DC 20515
Chairman Chris Van Hollen
House Appropriation on Financial Services & Government Subcommittee
Washington, DC 20515
Re: Save the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and our investment in broadband
Dear Chair Granger, Chair Womack, Chair Murray, and Chair Van Hollen,
Every day, over 2.8 million households in California rely on the Affordable Connectivity Program’s (ACP) subsidies and discounts to afford critical broadband internet service – and 4,500 alone in Marin County. By prioritizing affordability alongside infrastructure expansion, the ACP plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and promoting equitable access to essential online services for all Americans to the internet to find jobs, receive healthcare, and obtain an education.
However, the ACP sunsets in April, and Congress’s failure to extend this program would sever the connection to affordable, reliable broadband access to these 2.8 million California households, in addition to more than 20 million households across the nation. The loss of the ACP would also reduce the effectiveness of Congress’ $42 billion investment in the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Act. The ACP is necessary to maximize BEAD program dollars intended to build out our nation’s broadband infrastructure and ensure that no community is left behind.
We strongly support the bi-cameral, bi-partisan Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act to ensure this vital program continues to help keep America online. This funding will keep Americans connected as Congress continues to work to develop a permanent funding pathway for this critical broadband program. As Congress works to finalize Fiscal Year 2024 funding, please include language to extend the Affordable Connectivity Program.
Broadband access is one of local governments’ highest priorities in California, recognizing its critical importance in reducing inequality. Expanding broadband infrastructure into underserved areas is key – and once it is there – also ensuring residents can afford it. Continuation of the ACP is vital to this work.
Sincerely,
Dennis Rodoni, President
Marin County Board of Supervisors
Cc: Marin County Board of Supervisors
Cc: Congressman Jared Huffman
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