NTCA Endorses Bill to Extend ACP Funding Through 2024

NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association today endorsed the ACP Extension Act, which was introduced by Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Kevin Cramer (R- N.D.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) in the Senate and Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Norma Torres (D-Calif.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Anthony D-Esposito (R-N.Y.) and Marcus Molinaro (R-N.Y.) in the House. This bipartisan and bicameral legislation would provide $7 billion in funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), with the aim of funding it through 2024. Currently, funding is expected to lapse in April of 2024 without supplemental appropriations.
  
“The Affordable Connectivity Program has a proven track record of success in enabling broadband access for millions of low-income Americans,” said NTCA CEO Shirley Bloomfield. “NTCA members have been active participants in this effort, and they are eager to continue to provide more affordable broadband to their customers who are most in need. NTCA thanks Senators Welch, Vance, Rosen and Cramer and Representatives Clarke and Fitzpatrick and their colleagues for introducing the ACP Extension Act, which will provide funds that are essential to the ongoing mission of bridging the digital divide.”