Rep. Veasey Applauds Launch of the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Veasey (TX-33) today applauded the launch of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program and urged eligible constituents to enroll and receive a discount on their monthly internet bill. The creation of this program was made possible because of Rep. Veasey's work with the Energy and Commerce Committee to expand broadband connectivity to every corner of the country. In 2020, Rep. Veasey introduced legislation that bolsters access to broadband internet services for low-income and minority individuals and key provisions of this legislation were later included in a sweeping COVID-19 stimulus package that was signed into law. The provisions of the Veasey-led legislation laid the groundwork for the launch of the Emergency Broadband Benefit program. This year, Rep. Veasey continued his work to expand broadband by introducing the Enhanced Emergency Broadband Act—legislation that authorizes additional funds to the Emergency Broadband Benefit program.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is a groundbreaking new program that will help economically vulnerable Americans afford their monthly internet bill. The $3.2 billion program was created as part of the final omnibus appropriations bill in December, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced today that open enrollment in the program has begun. The EBB Program will provide struggling families a discount of up to $50, or $75 on tribal lands, off their monthly cost of home internet service. It may also provide an additional subsidy for a computer. Internet providers who participate in the program can apply to the FCC for reimbursement.

"From virtual classrooms to telehealth visits, the pandemic has made access to reliable, high-speed internet more important than ever. That's why I introduced legislation that created the Emergency Broadband Benefit last year—because in this day and age, internet service is a necessity, not a luxury, and ensuring that every family has the ability to telework and stay connected begins with ensuring every family can afford it," said Rep. Veasey. "I encourage anyone who may be struggling right now to see if they qualify for this new program, and then sign up by contacting their internet provider. I will continue to work hard in Congress to expand internet access and improve affordability so that every household, regardless of zip code in TX-33 and beyond, has reliable, high-speed service."

Households interested in learning whether they qualify for the benefit are encouraged to visit the FCC's new enrollment website – https://getemergencybroadband.org/ – and then sign up for the program through their internet service provider.