Perspectives from FSF Scholars March 5, 2023 Vol. 19, No. 9

For example, because the ACP monthly benefit takes the form of a voucher that can be used to acquire broadband service from any participating ISP, consumers are empowered to choose the provider with a plan that best suits their needs. [...] Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) put it recently: “I think we need to have accountability to make sure that the people who are receiving this benefit are the ones that actually cannot pay, and would not pay otherwise had they not had the extra money to be able to afford this.” Eligibility for participation in the FCC’s Lifeline program, a preexisting and still ongoing FCC program subsidizing telecommun. [...] Considering the importance of internet access to so many aspects of our everyday lives, a case can be made that the Affordable Connectivity Program is a worthwhile “safety net” program that should be extended. [...] But only if the eligibility threshold is reduced to 135% or less of the federal poverty level and stringent safeguards are put in place to prevent waste and fraud. [...] The views expressed in this Perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of others on the staff of the Free State Foundation or those affiliated with it.