WASHINGTON–Credit unions, especially in underserved areas, could see even greater usage of online and mobile banking solutions as the result of a new FCC plan.
The acting chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission announced it will put to use $3.2 billion in emergency funds to largely subsidize broadband service for millions of households. The objective is to narrow the “digital divide that has punished low-income families during the pandemic,” according to acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
Under the plan, qualifying households would receive $50 a month in discounts for high-speed Internet service. The discount would be $75 for households on tribal lands. The plan is being called the Emergency Broadband Benefit.
The funds became available after Congress allocated the money in December 2020 as part of a coronavirus relief bill. The money will be available to households at or 135% above the poverty line, those who qualify for free and reduced school lunch, or have experienced substantial loss of income since Feb. 29, 2020.
‘No One Should Have to Choose’
According to federal data, at least 14.5 million homes do not have access to high-speed Internet.
“No one should have to choose between paying their Internet bill or paying to put food on the table,” Rosenworcel said in a statement. “With the help of the Emergency Broadband Benefit, we have a new way for households to access virtual learning, for patients to connect to telehealth providers, and for those struggling in this pandemic to learn new online skills and seek their next job.”