Press Releases

WASHINGTON — Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22) has introduced a bill to fund the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) through Fiscal Year 2024.

H.R. 8466, the Affordable Connectivity Program Improvement and Extension Act of 2024, will replenish the Affordable Connectivity Fund with $6 billion by amending Section 521(4)(a) of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024. This creates no additional taxpayer burden and is fully paid for through existing federal funding.

1 in 4 households (80,695) in New York’s 22nd Congressional District receive, in total, $46.9 million in benefits from the ACP.

This legislation also includes measures to combat fraud, such as requiring eligible households to enroll in the ACP through the National Verifier or National Lifeline Accountability Database. H.R. 8466 would treat all households which are currently enrolled in the ACP as eligible to receive the benefit for 180 days after passage, regardless of future eligibility status.

Further, this legislation is supported by NCTA, which represents the country's largest broadband providers and streaming services.

“One out of every four households in my district benefits from the ACP. Local leaders across my district have been steadfast in their advocacy for this vital program, and for good reason,” said Rep. Brandon Williams (NY-22). “For millions across America, the ACP is a lifeline that enables them to work, study, and communicate online. We must act now to make sure they can continue to do so.” 

NCTA issued the following statement in response to H.R. 8466’s introduction:

“We commend Rep. Brandon Williams on the introduction of the Affordable Connectivity Program Improvement and Extension Act of 2024. With over 22 million American households now relying on the ACP for vital internet connectivity, continuing the program helps bridge the digital divide and the important mission of connecting every citizen to reliable high-speed internet service. ACP has been a success story and Rep. Williams’ legislation will help to ensure that it continues to receive funding.”

The Affordable Connectivity Program has been in the process of winding down since funding ran out without renewal earlier this year. April 2024 was the last month in which subscribers received the program’s full benefit. Subscribers will receive a partial benefit in May before losing coverage entirely, unless Congressman Williams' bill becomes law.