The United States launched a special subsidy of US$3.2 billion for the epidemic: for families in need to purchase computers and broadband
In the early morning of February 23, it was reported that during the new crown epidemic, the US government launched a number of relief programs to help people tide over the difficulties. According to the latest report, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced on February 22 that it is advancing a US$3.2 billion emergency subsidy program to provide economic assistance to low-income Americans for their Internet and IT needs during this special period.
It is reported that the US$3.2 billion of funding comes from Congress support. If low-income Americans pay monthly subscription fees for broadband or buy laptops or tablets, they can apply for subsidies.
The new crown epidemic is raging in the United States, and millions of children are taking lessons online at home, so a stable Internet connection is even more important for American families. According to the subsidy program, low-income Americans can receive a monthly broadband subsidy of US$50, and the broadband subsidy for Indian tribe reservations is US$75.
FCC Acting Chairman Rosenworcel (Jessica Rosenworcel) said that she is distributing reports and procedures regarding this subsidy program. She said that whether it is work, medical health, or school education, the new crown epidemic proves that if there is no Internet connection, it will be difficult for many American families to maintain a "modern life."
In terms of purchasing computer equipment, American households can receive a subsidy (discount) of $100 if they buy laptops, tablets, or desktops from participating retailers. The purchaser must pay $50.
Which families can enjoy the computer purchase and broadband subsidies this time? It is reported that eligible families are as follows: families that have participated in the school's free (reduced) lunch program, have experienced severe income reduction since the beginning of 2020, and have received the "Federal Pell Grant"; or meet the current low-income groups of relevant retailers or It is a preferential plan for the new crown epidemic.
The California Public Utilities Commission stated that for this subsidy program, the Federal Communications Commission should set the price that people can pay for the subsidized products within a time limit, and the additional $3.2 billion in subsidies should be issued as soon as possible.
The City of Chicago in the United States stated that the FCC should formulate an information-transparent plan. The duration of the subsidy program and the remaining funds should be notified to the public in a timely manner and data information should be disclosed.
The US Congress stated that this temporary subsidy program will last for at least six months and will be appropriately extended according to the specific time when the US government health department announces the end of the public health crisis.