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Program Harris Championed Provides Affordable, Reliable Internet in Pennsylvania
Working America
07/26/2024
These days, high-speed internet is a must-have. From job applications to paying rent, everything is online. Still, millions of Americans can’t get high-speed internet at home because they can’t afford it.
That’s why Working America helped 41,000 people save $32 million on internet costs by applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) internet program championed by Vice President Kamala Harris. Nationwide, the program has helped over 23 million households save $30-75 each month on their internet bills.
Lack of internet access is a big problem in Pennsylvania. Estimates show 11% of Pennsylvanians don’t have access to the internet or a device. That means no at-home access to email or important information about job postings, unemployment benefits, or community news.
Living without Wi-Fi at home was especially tough during the early days of the pandemic. When schools closed, parents reported driving their kids out to the parking lots of their school, restaurants, or other establishments just to get a Wi-Fi connection to complete their kid’s online classes.
The ACP was originally funded under the infrastructure package Harris fought for, but it expired at the end of May. The fate of the program is now in the hands of Congress, and Republicans are blocking any legislation to extend affordability for us.