CWA Members Urge Congress to Pass the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act

Members of the Communications Workers of America have a longstanding commitment to making sure that every household in America has reliable high-speed internet service. The passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in 2021 means that, at long last, that goal is within reach.

Critically, in addition to allocating $42 billion for broadband deployment, the IIJA provided initial funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which has enabled over 22 million households to afford high-speed internet access. Those funds will soon be depleted.

The bipartisan Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act of 2024, introduced by Representatives Yvette D. Clarke (D-N.Y.) and Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.) will provide $7 billion in funding for the ACP. While these funds will only last, at most, through the end of 2024, they are critical to ensuring the continuation of this essential program. Without the ACP, millions of families will be cut off from critical healthcare services, educational resources, and job opportunities. Job-creating broadband infrastructure projects could be curtailed if fewer customers are able to afford service.

We are proud of the contribution we make by building, maintaining, and supporting our nation’s communications infrastructure, and we have seen firsthand the impact that the digital divide has had on low income, rural and tribal communities in every state and county across our country. We thank Representatives Fitzpatrick and Clarke for introducing the ACP Extension Act and urge Congressional leaders to support this funding request and to work with us to ensure that internet service remains affordable for everyone.

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