Bipartisan Bill Seeks to Restore and Enhance Affordable Internet Access For Rural Michigan

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Washington, D.C. - Michigan at the Forefront of Bridging the Digital Divide

On July 30, 2024, U.S. Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), and Mike Carey (R-OH-15) introduced the Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act, a bipartisan bill designed to renew the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This federal program, which previously provided critical high-speed internet access to over 23 million low-income households, including thousands in Michigan, ran out of funding in May. The legislation has strong bipartisan support, with Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), J.D. Vance (R-OH), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) championing the companion bill in the Senate.

The Affordable Connectivity Program: A Lifeline for Michigan Families

For nearly three years, the ACP has been an essential service for low-income families across Michigan, offering a $30 monthly discount on internet service. This discount enabled families to engage in remote work, online education, and telehealth services, crucial during these increasingly digital times. The expiration of this program left many Michigan households without affordable internet access, exacerbating the existing digital divide.

Representative Bergman, representing Michigan's 1st Congressional District, emphasized the necessity of the program, stating, "In today’s connected world, it’s vitally important that everyone has access to fast and reliable internet. From our hospitals and schools to families in remote areas – we all depend on connectivity." The new legislation aims to restore and enhance this vital service for Michigan residents and beyond.

Legislative Details and Michigan's Role

The Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act not only seeks to reinstate the ACP but also includes measures to enhance internet security by replacing insecure wireless equipment from companies linked to the Chinese Communist Party, like Huawei and ZTE. This aspect of the bill addresses national security concerns and aims to safeguard Michigan's communications infrastructure.

The funding for this initiative is proposed to come from renewing the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) authority to auction AWS-3 band spectrum to U.S. telecom providers. Additionally, the bill proposes tightening the eligibility criteria for the ACP from households with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line to those at or below 135%, aligning it with other federal assistance programs like Lifeline and Medicare Part D. This change could impact how many Michigan families qualify for the program, emphasizing the importance of targeted assistance.

Bipartisan Support and Broad Endorsements in Michigan

Representative Budzinski, highlighting the bipartisan nature of the effort, stressed that "Access to high-speed internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity." Her sentiments were echoed by Representative Carey, who pointed out the significant gap in internet access in Ohio, reflecting similar challenges faced in rural and underserved areas of Michigan.

The bill has garnered support from a wide range of organizations, including AARP, the American Civil Liberties Union, Common Sense Media, Benton Institute, Accolade, Public Knowledge, INCOMPAS, R Street Institute, Affordable Broadband Campaign, New America, Emerios, Competitive Carriers Association (CCA), and CTIA. These endorsements underscore the broad recognition of the importance of affordable internet access, particularly in Michigan where reliable connectivity is crucial for economic development and quality of life.

Looking Ahead: Michigan's Path to Reinstated Connectivity

As the legislation progresses through Congress, Michigan's role in advocating for and benefiting from this program remains crucial. The Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act represents a significant step towards ensuring that all Michiganders, regardless of income or location, have access to the essential services that high-speed internet provides.