Rep. Sykes Statement On Urgent Need To Extend The Affordable Connectivity Program, Calls For Bipartisan Solution
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments, an action necessary to maintain the integrity of the program before it ends in April 2024 due to insufficient funds.
U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement on the potential end of the program:
“In the twenty-first century, access to the internet isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Northeast Ohioans rely on internet access to work, learn, access medical care, and discover new opportunities. The groundbreaking Affordable Connectivity Program, made possible by the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has provided critical subsidies to 84,755 households in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District, enabling working people and families to access the affordable broadband we all need to participate in today’s economy.
“Despite its massive impact and popularity, House Republicans have turned their back on the ACP, and are blocking the funding it needs to keep running.
“Unless House Republicans join Democrats at the table, the ACP will expire in just two months, and more than 75 percent of ACP households will experience a disruption to their internet access – or will have to stop service altogether.
“Thousands of constituents have written into my office urging Congress to protect this vital program. Without it, internet access will become yet another increased cost for families in my district to bear. I can’t let this happen.
“I’m calling for leaders in Congress to pass the president’s request for more ACP funding that will ensure Northeast Ohioans can stay connected by the transformative investment of the ACP.
“I’ll keep fighting to ensure all people in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District can access the resources they need to thrive.”
A longtime champion for affordable internet, Rep. Sykes proudly helped lead bipartisan legislation creating the Ohio Residential Broadband Expansion Program to guarantee all Ohioans have access to affordable, high-speed internet during her time in the Ohio House of Representatives.
For more information on the Affordable Connectivity Program, click here.