Discounted broadband coming soon to low-income New Yorkers

ALBANY, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Thursday, August 15 that low-income New Yorkers may be eligible for low-cost broadband internet.

The governor announced that the New York State Public Service Commission has reached a settlement with Charter Communications — the parent company of broadband provider Spectrum — to provide discounted broadband internet to low-income customers.

Spectrum provides internet and cable TV to 58 of the 62 New York counties.

The settlement ends a lawsuit by the Department of Public Service against Charter that the company allegedly raised the prices to low-income families for higher speeds without approval. According to the PSC, this price hike — an increase of $10, from $14.99 a month to $24.99 a month — was in violation of their merger order in 2016.

“My administration has been steadfast in its commitment to expand internet service to all New Yorkers, and this settlement directly benefits thousands of low-income New York families,” Governor Hochul said. “Broadband is crucial to driving economic growth and opportunity for all of our citizens, and we will continue our efforts to provide broadband access across the state.”

Eligible customers must be enrolled in the National Free School Lunch Program or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The settlement will require Charter to reduce their prices to $15 per month for those New Yorkers in those programs for the next four years. According to the governor’s office in years two through four of the settlement, Charter cannot raise the price by more than the rate of inflation.

“I want to thank Governor Hochul, the Public Service Commission and Charter Communications for their collaborative efforts in launching this vital program to provide $15 Internet services to low-income households across New York,” Assemblywoman Maritza Davila said in a statement. “Access to the Internet is not just a luxury but a necessity, especially for young families. In today’s digital age, the Internet is a crucial tool for education, employment, and accessing essential services. This program will help ensure that our children can continue their studies, that parents can seek and maintain employment, and that families stay connected with the resources they need to thrive. Thank you for recognizing the importance of digital inclusion and for taking this significant step toward bridging the digital divide in our communities.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com.