“The high cost of internet service is, by far, the main reason Massachusetts residents can’t get online. It is not surprising that many states—not just Massachusetts—are considering ways to address the issue of internet affordability”
Everyone deserves to be connected!
Internet Access is a Basic Necessity
Access to the Internet is now a necessity for everyday activities and essential for education, employment, leisure, business, public services and healthcare. Today, 96% of U.S. adults say they use the internet
High cost is a barrier to internet connectivity
Many of those who cannot afford any home broadband services may be paying for smartphone plans and therefore not have the ability to pay for both. Some people might have to forgo other basic necessities in order to be able to pay for their internet service, while others would rather not give up necessities, such as groceries, to pay for internet services. Studies show that 62% of individuals without fixed wireless internet broadband services would need significant cost assistance to be able to afford a high-speed subscription for their home.
Shutdown of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
When Congress eliminated funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), low-income consumers lost access to internet discounts. ACP was a national benefit program that provided a discount on monthly internet bills and a one-time discount for a certain devices for qualifying households. Nearly 370,000 MA households (14%) were enrolled in ACP when it ended. In some areas of the state, 1 in 4 households participated in ACP.
